Missing teeth can cause a number of problems for your oral health and overall wellbeing. Not only can missing teeth lead to aesthetic concerns, but they can also cause difficulty eating and speaking properly. In addition, missing teeth can even lead to more serious issues such as gum disease and bone loss. Thankfully, tooth replacement options such as dental implants are available to help you restore your smile and improve your oral health.
Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option for many people because they are durable and long-lasting. In addition, dental implants can help to preserve the jawbone and prevent further tooth loss. Missing one or more teeth? Talk to Mountain Aire Dentistry about whether dental implants are the best option!
There are a number of reasons why adults suffer from missing teeth. One of the most common reasons is periodontal disease, which is a serious gum infection. Periodontal disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. Other common causes of tooth loss include injury, tooth decay, and wear and tear.
Missing teeth can have a number of consequences for your oral health. One of the most obvious consequences is aesthetic concerns. Missing teeth can make you self-conscious about your smile and may even lead to social anxiety. In addition, missing teeth can cause difficulty eating and speaking properly. When teeth are missing, the remaining teeth can shift out of place, which can make it difficult to bite and chew food properly. speech may also be affected by missing teeth.
Another serious consequence of missing teeth is gum disease. When teeth are missing, there are more opportunities for bacteria to build up in the mouth, which can lead to infection. In addition, missing teeth can cause the jawbone to weaken and eventually lead to bone loss.
Fortunately, there are a number of tooth replacement options available to help you restore your smile. Dental implants are one of the most popular tooth replacement options because they are durable and long-lasting.
The best candidates for dental implants are those who are missing one or more teeth and have healthy gums. Dental implants are not suitable for everyone, so it is important to talk to your dentist to see if they are right for you.
The Procedure
The dental implant procedure is usually performed in multiple stages, the American Dental Association explains that it typically includes:
First, the dentist surgically places the implant into the jawbone. Your dentist may recommend a diet of soft foods, cold foods and warm soup during the healing process.
Next, the bone around the implant heals in a process called osseointegration. What makes an implant so strong is that the bone actually grows around it and holds it in place. Osseointegration means “combines with the bone” and takes time. Some patients might need to wait until the implant is completely integrated, up to several months, before replacement teeth can be attached to the implant. Other patients can have the implants and replacement teeth placed all in one visit.
Finally, it’s time for the placement of the artificial tooth/teeth. For a single tooth implant, your dentist will customize a new tooth for you, called a dental crown. The crown will be based on size, shape, color and fit, and will be designed to blend in with your other teeth. If you are replacing more than a single tooth, custom-made bridges or dentures will be made to fit your mouth and your implants. (Note: The replacement teeth usually take some time to make. In the meantime, your dentist may give you a temporary crown, bridge or denture to help you eat and speak normally until the permanent replacement is ready.)
There are two different types of dental implants, each with its own set of benefits:
Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Be sure to brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. With proper care, your dental implants can last a lifetime!
If you are considering dental implants, we invite you to contact Mountain Aire Dentistry to schedule an appointment with our skilled and experienced dentist, Dr. Chris Bockrath. Our state-of-the-art dental office is conveniently located in Aurora, Colorado, and we welcome patients from all surrounding communities.
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.