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Do Dental Implants Replace Missing Teeth?

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Do Dental Implants Replace Missing Teeth?

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Dental implants are one of the most-used treatment options for replacing missing teeth. When you are missing one or more teeth, it’s more than just a cosmetic issue. It can actually affect your oral health: affecting the way you eat, speak, and more. If you’re not sure dental implants are right for you, let’s go over the pros and cons.  

Missing Teeth 

In America, more than 36 million Americans do not have any teeth, and 120 million people are missing at least one tooth. Unfortunately, these numbers are expected to grow in the next two decades. Tooth loss is the result of decay, gum disease, injury, cancer, or wear and tear with age. Missing one or more teeth can be more than just a cosmetic flaw, but it can also affect your dental health and the way you talk and eat. Without a tooth root to secure, your jaw bone will begin to shrink and weaken, resulting in your cheeks and lips to eventually sag. 

What are Dental Implants? 

Dental implants are a great solution to replace missing teeth. If you suffer from missing teeth, Mountain Aire Dentistry offers dental implants as a state-of-the-art option that allow patients to replace missing teeth with ones that look, feel, and act like natural teeth. They are natural looking, durable, and stay in place. For many patients, the dental implant is stronger than the original natural tooth was. The implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and act as a root, staying securely in place since they’re made with titanium. 

Who are Dental Implants Right For? 

Mayo Clinic recommends that you look into dental implants if you have:

  • One or more missing teeth
  • A jawbone that has reached fun growth
  • Adequate bone to secure the implants, or are able to receive a bone graft 
  • Healthy oral tissues
  • No underlying health conditions that could affect bone healing
  • The ability to wear dentures if needed
  • A desire to improve your speech and are dedicated to the process (which can be a little lengthy) 

Benefits

With Mountain Aire Dentistry, you will receive implants that are realistic and durable. This means that once your procedure is done and you’ve healed, you won’t have to worry about your tooth for years to come. Oftentimes, implants are preferred over dental bridges because they don’t have to rely on nearby teeth for support, which can take a toll and weaken those teeth over time. Other benefits of implants include: 

  • Restore and preserve facial structure
  • Stop the progression of bone loss and gum recession
  • Create a secure base for bridgework
  • Secure dentures without the hassle of glue
  • Help remaining teeth stay in place
  • Normalize chewing and speaking abilities
  • Provide a permanent solution to missing teeth 

The Process

Dental implant procedures require multiple steps and can take anywhere from 3 to 9 months to complete. First you will need to come in for an evaluation. You will need to have your teeth, gums, and jaw examined to make sure you have a healthy enough jawbone to maintain the implant. If any issues are found, you may need additional treatment before you can begin the implant process. 

Once you can receive the implant, it can take a few months before enough bone growth occurs around the screw. After this, you will have an abutment placement. This is used to connect the replacement tooth to the implant. After a few weeks and the gums are healed from the abutment placement, then the replacement tooth will be placed. 

Caring for Implants

Even though a dental implant isn’t’ a real tooth, you still have to care for it like it’s a natural tooth. The better care you give your implant, the longer it will last. You will need to brush your teeth twice a day, floss, use fluoride, and watch what you eat. It will be important to avoid hard, crunchy foods like ice and candy, which can result in chipped or damaged teeth. 

With your missing tooth replaced, you will begin to experience better health, speech, nutrition, and improved confidence from a whole, restored smile. 

Make an Appointment with Mountain Aire Dentistry

Dr. Chris Bockrath and our staff at Mountain Aire Dentistry want to help you replace your missing teeth. We will carefully assess your concerns and your dental health needs to determine if dental implants are the best option for you. Learn more about how you can achieve a beautiful, healthy smile with Mountain Aire Dentistry by scheduling an appointment at (303)-731-7755. 


291 E Flatiron Crossing Dr,
Broomfield, CO 80021

(303) 731-7755

 

When you visit our Broomfield dental office, your smile is our top priority. Our Dentists invite you to experience the difference a warm and caring team can provide for you and your family. Enjoy a unique and comfortable dental experience designed to bring a healthier and happier smile back into your life. We invite you to call or visit our Broomfield dental office and discover the exceptional difference we offer to those we serve.