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If you have recently dealt with an injury or disease that affected your oral health, there are options available to recover the smile you once had. You may even be able to achieve a better smile than the one you had. Dental implants make it possible to renew your smile if you have lost some teeth. There are several options when it comes to dental implants, depending on how many teeth need to be replaced: just one tooth or several teeth in a row.
A dental implant is a metal post, usually made of titanium, which replaces the root portion of a missing tooth. We will then place a replacement tooth to the post, which can be permanently attached. An ideal candidate for dental implants is a non-smoker, has maintained good oral health, and has healthy gums with no signs of gum disease.
Dental implants are very versatile. If you’re missing one tooth, one implant, and one replacement tooth will take care of your problem. If you’re missing several teeth in a row, a few strategically placed implants can support a permanent bridge. Similarly, if you have lost all of your teeth, a full bridge or full denture can be permanently fixed in your mouth with a strategic number of implants.
Unlike dental implants, bridges and dentures are not fixed to the bone. This can make them unstable, making it difficult to eat or smile with the confidence you want. Dental implants look, feel, and act more natural, just like your natural teeth. They also have a stronger biting force. Implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support, which is definitely an advantage since this means they won’t compromise the health of your surrounding healthy teeth. Implants are also likely to last a lifetime, whereas bridges are only expected to last several years and even less if a root canal is required.
Your new dental implants should be treated like natural teeth. They require brushing and flossing at least twice every day and regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist. The better you take care of your implants, the more likely they truly will last you a lifetime.
To learn more about our office and available services, give us a call!