05 Jun Dental Implants: A Permanent Tooth Replacement Solution
Losing a tooth is a drag. Not only does it affect your self-esteem, it can present some concerning oral health issues including additional tooth loss and jawbone deterioration. Fortunately, dental implants make for excellent replacement teeth. These permanent prosthetics are the only structurally complete tooth replacement option available.
The Problem with Conventional Tooth Replacement Methods
Traditional tooth replacement methods like bridges and dentures only replace the visible structures of teeth, not the roots. When we lose the roots of our teeth, our jawbones atrophy. Bone atrophy does more than contribute to an aged, “sunken in” appearance – it changes the landscape of our oral anatomy. With bone loss comes higher risks for additional tooth loss.
Bone deterioration can also make existing dentures and bridges uncomfortable and ill-fitting. It’s common for patients to experience their prosthetics moving during meals or when speaking. Bone loss also means that prosthetics may need to be repaired and replaced every few years.
Why Dental Implants are Ideal Replacement Teeth
A dental implant is a small, screw-like component that is constructed from a biocompatible metal (titanium) and is embedded into the jawbone. As patients heal from their initial implantation procedure, the bone surrounding the implant will fuse to its titanium structure. This process locks the dental implant in place, permanently.
Once an implant is stabilized in the jaw, the tooth replacement process is completed. If a patient is only having one tooth replaced, he or she will receive a permanent dental crown that attaches to a dental implant. The crown will replace the visible portions of teeth. If numerous teeth are being replaced, multiple dental implants are placed throughout the jaw and can be used to hold bridges or dentures.
Dental implants keep bone stimulated, which prevents jawbone atrophy. They also substantially improve oral function when compared to conventional prosthetic teeth. The restorations and prosthetics attached to dental implants are custom made from tooth-colored materials for optimal aesthetics.
If you have questions about implant dentistry, call Charlottesville Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center to schedule a consultation with our oral surgeon.