Dental Implants for Missing Teeth

There are as many ways for dental implants to replace missing teeth as there are reasons for the loss. Within the natural process of life the advancement of tooth decay, gum disease, bone loss, accident or injury occur for many reasons. Our adult teeth are also known as our permanent teeth when they push their way through our gums, during elementary school days. However, someone failed to teach us that permanent isn’t always for keeps.

Now loss doesn’t mean having to go without one smile, one chew, or one word (if it obstructs your speech) for very much longer. From your molars, to (bi)cuspids, to incisors; the team of dentists involved in satisfying your desire for a mouth full of beautifully healthy teeth and just as strong if not stronger substitutes, make up 1/3 of all ADA recognized dental professionals. They will be working on your mouth; to make it the best aesthetically out of making it the best functionally.

Your general dentist will perform the diagnosis. Your orthodontist may be required to help adjust any bite issues that may impact implantation. Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon removes damaged tissue, bone and teeth before placing the titanium bolt (root) into the jaw for dental implant permanent securing. Finally, impressions are taken of your new bite and CT scan images before ordering your specific implant. Once your implants arrive shaped and tinted, they will be attached and you will be well on your way.

There are the less severe cases of tooth loss, the most severe of cases, and everything in between. For the less severe loss, a tooth that is loose or proceeding through the early stages of decay may be extracted by your general dentist. Resin veneers can be applied and shaped, crowns and dentures replaced at this stage because the titanium roots are already in place. In more severe tooth loss or oral deterioration, your dental implant procedure will be a multi-step process. Your preparations may require multiple oral surgeries and bone graphing if significant bone loss has left you without sufficient jaw bone to attach the titanium bolts to. If you fall within the diverse spectrum of dental implant recipients, your general dentist, oral surgeon, and prosthodontist will do all they can to fill your mouth with teeth you can be proud of.

All dental implant recipients eventually have the concern of longevity. The men and women receiving this procedure are of varying age and lifestyle, but the same causes may greatly diminish the retention of their dental work. The existence of continued oral infection, gum and bone deterioration are the prevalent cause aside from external trauma that could ever damage your new teeth or ever cause them to come out. Your general dentist knows your dental history so along side the oral surgeon; they would be the best individuals to assess your unique case and candidacy for the examination and treatment of your oral cavity.

Once you’ve completed the procedure, keep in mind that the dental implants are just as strong as your natural teeth. They will be designed to replicate your natural teeth shape and tint. Brush, floss, and rinse as you normally would. Regular dental check ups are critical as well because infection and disease that affected your oral cavity once before may return and spread. Your oral health is still a working progress because dental implants are your teeth to care for; they are just made of different material.