Dental implants offer a more structurally complete tooth replacement, including a root-like device, that make this treatment option a durable one that helps to preserve much of the functionality of the missing tooth.
After the oral surgeon places the titanium dental implant into the jaw, the bone in the area forms a bond with it. When successfully completed, this osseointegration process leaves the implant as a permanent fixture in the patient’s jaw.
When an oral surgeon treats tooth loss with dental implants, the patient gets a more fully functional tooth replacement. By becoming a prosthetic tooth root of sorts, the implant helps to preserve the integrity of the jawbone. When the root is not replaced, the jawbone wears away and there may be an increased risk of further tooth loss.
Dental implants also help to maximize chewing function. The implant is able to tolerate stronger chewing forces, so the patient can continue to eat most, if not all, of his or her favorite foods. Dentures and bridges, on the other hand, can make it more difficult to chew.
It’s also easier to maintain your oral health with dental implants, in comparison to alternative tooth replacement methods. Implants stand alone and do not need support from surrounding teeth, so dental implant patients retain access to the gumline, which allows them to brush and floss more effectively.
Dental implants can help to maintain your oral health and your smile’s appearance after tooth loss or extraction. Contact Charlottesville Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center today to learn more about your tooth replacement options.