Your dental professional has recently informed you that an extraction must take place. While you know it’s necessary for your overall oral and physical health – and you’re tired of living in pain – the thought of a gap in your smile makes your stomach drop. You wonder, “What will people think?” … “Will I ever be able to smile again?”… “Which tooth replacement option is the best?” These are all important questions.
In the past, the most frequently recommended tooth replacement options included dental bridges and dentures. The type chosen would all depend on the extent of tooth loss. One uses nearby teeth to connect, while the other rests directly on the gums. Both serve a purpose and are useful in restoring smiles – but in recent years dental implants have entered the dental industry as a more ideal solution.
To learn more about this tooth replacement solution, continue reading. You can also contact our Fresno, CA office online or at 559-297-1294 to book your dental implants consultation with Dr. Denes.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are actually designed to replace the roots of your former teeth. Made from a biocompatible material, such as titanium, the implants are able to bond with the jawbone and surrounding tissues to provide unparalleled support for a restoration. Together, the implants and restoration replace the entirety of a tooth, from root to crown. No other restoration on the market is able to do this.
The implants are inserted directly into the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. Once they have successfully bonded to surrounding tissues (in about four to six months), your custom-made restoration will be affixed to the implants.
Types of Implant-Supported Restorations
Implant-supported restorations come in a variety of shapes and sizes and the type recommended will depend on the extent of your tooth loss.
- Dental Crown: This type is typically chosen for a single missing tooth or when minimal, yet sporadic tooth loss has occurred throughout the mouth. A single dental implant is inserted below the gum line and a porcelain crown is customized to match your former tooth.
- Dental Bridge: When tooth loss is isolated to one section of the mouth and includes one to three missing teeth in a row, a dental bridge is recommended. This restorative device consists of two custom dental crowns fused together with at least one artificial tooth. Rather than using teeth on either side of the gap to support the bridge, it will be connected to two dental implants.
- Denture: Trauma, disease, and age are all major contributors to complete tooth loss. When this occurs, you want a restoration that not only restores your dental function and smile, but will stay in place. An implant-supported denture can replace an entire row of teeth with just four to six strategically placed dental implants.
What’s So Great About an Implant-Supported Restoration?
Unlike traditional restorations, your implant-supported restoration will promote better oral health and provide a lifetime of support. Because the implants are inserted directly into your jawbone, they are able to function like natural tooth roots and keep the nerves within your jawbone stimulated each time you bite down or chew. This nerve stimulation maintains proper jawbone density to counteract bone loss.
With your implant-supported restoration secured, you never have to fear it slipping out of place, or causing embarrassing situations when dining out publically. Other benefits include realistic results, improved comfort, and enhanced self-confidence.
Missing Teeth?
We invite you to meet with Dr. Denes at our Fresno, CA dental office to learn more about the benefits of dental implants. Please contact us today online or by calling 559-297-1294.