By Emil M. Verban Jr, DDS
If you have lost a tooth due to an accident or from periodontal disease, that one tooth can be replaced using a dental implant. A dental implant is an excellent way of replacing a single tooth without the disadvantages of a fixed bridge or removable dentures. It is the ideal treatment for a missing tooth because it does not affect your adjacent teeth. That means no grinding or crowning of your natural teeth for bridges, and no clasps for removable partial dentures.
Your teeth stimulate the surrounding bone with each bite. This preserves the integrity of the bone. When a tooth is lost, the bone is not stimulated, and begins to shrink away. A dental implant replaces the root structure, so the jawbone is better preserved. A dental implant is also much easier to clean, compared to a bridge. And unlike a bridge, an implant cannot be affected by cavities.
A dental implant looks and functions like a natural tooth, while having several advantages over other types of tooth replacement. If you are missing a single tooth, a dental implant is the most natural-looking way to replace it.
Replacing Multiple Teeth With Dental Implants
As we age, a greater effort is required in the maintenance of our appearance. While we may force ourselves to strict diet and exercise, many times our teeth are forgotten. Teeth are prone to deterioration after many years of use. They get worn down, chipped/cracked, and eventually, they can be lost to physical injury, or prolonged tooth decay and deterioration. Having many missing teeth is detrimental to the health, and replacing these teeth is very important.
Just as with one missing tooth, several missing teeth can be aided with dental implants. Implant-supported bridges are permanently fixed in the mouth, unlike removable appliances. Dental implants look and function like natural teeth without needing the support of neighboring teeth. Because dental implants replace the root of the natural tooth, they preserve the jaw bone, and prevent bone deterioration. This preservation of jawbone helps to keep both the bone and gum tissue from collapsing, which may lead to an unattractive smile. In addition, with a traditional bridge, cement can wash out from underneath — exposing the tooth, allowing cavities to form. Dental implants do not get cavities, but brushing and flossing are extremely important to maintain for healthy gums, and help in keeping plaque away from the bone and gum tissue.
Dentures will fit more securely and comfortably with an over denture implant. This will minimize any discomfort and movement from slipping, which is common with normal dentures. Many adults are turning towards dental implant-supported dentures for greater comfort and confidence with dentures. Many people are often able to eat the foods they couldn’t before with their older dentures.
Multiple teeth implants are a great way to add confidence to your smile with a truly snug-fitting denture.
For more information, you may contact Emil Verban, Jr., DDS, at 309-662-8448 or visit www.mcleancountydental.com. McLean County Dental is located at 2103 E. Washington Street in Bloomington. Dr. Verban provides his patients both general dentistry expertise, and the ability to provide specialized services, such as cosmetic procedures and dental implants.
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