If you have poor dental health or suffer from dental issues, it may be time to consider dental implants. Dental implants are a superior long-term solution for tooth repair and replacement. While dentures have to be removed and refitted to fit the changing structure of the jaw, dental implants function as artificial teeth; they are permanently secured in the jaw and provide strength to surrounding teeth, preventing shifting and loosening from occurring.
To take advantage of the right time for implants, it is necessary to look at some signs that they may be right for you. Here are some things to look for when considering the need for dental implants:
Severe pain and tooth decay. Dental pain can be a sign of irreparable damage and decay, particularly after root canal procedures. After your dentist has determined that your tooth cannot be restored, it will have to be removed, leaving a gap in your mouth that could contribute to other dental problems.
Gaps in between teeth. When you have teeth missing, it can create areas of weakness in your mouth, teeth, and gums. You may not have enough confidence to smile, and your surrounding teeth may shift positions, compromising the health of your jaw. When teeth are missing, the portion of the jaw that would have been stimulated by the tooth is no longer needed, and bone structure is lost, further weakening your jaw and facial structure. Dental implants are an excellent choice for strengthening that area of the mouth once more.
Evidence of cavities and gum disease. Dental maladies such as cavities, periodontal disease, and broken or chipped teeth can all be sources of irreparable damage to teeth. To delay or ignore the need for treatment will add to the severity of the problem, eventually resulting in one or more teeth needing to be removed altogether. Early detection of some of these issues does not necessarily mean that you are on track for implants; in many cases, your dental practitioner can repair and restore teeth without the need for removal and reimplantation. Implants that are installed early, before severe signs of deterioration have set in have a more successful recovery rate and better health after the procedure. Talk to your dentist about what the best course of treatment is for your particular situation.
Your jaw and face have taken on a sunken appearance. Simply removing teeth and opting for dentures does not adequately stimulate the jawbone where teeth once resided. The jaw is not stimulated to regrow and fortify additional tissue, and you suffer from a loss of bone density. A dental implant will successfully stimulate the growth of critical tissue, fortifying your jaw and maintaining the youthful look and strength of your jawbone.
Dental Implantation Procedures
The procedure for dental implantation occurs in two phases. In the first phase of treatment, your dental professional will make a small incision in the gum line, exposing the area of bone to be used for anchoring the new tooth. An anchor will be placed in the jawline that will hold the crown that will function as the new tooth formed in phase two.
Phase two involves a series of fittings and impressions made of the area of the mouth where the anchor is now ready to receive the new tooth. Your dentist will then form a crown to fit over the anchor and ensure that it fits securely in your mouth without compromising surrounding tissues. With proper care and follow up, your implant will soon function as any normal healthy tooth would, providing support to your mouth and fortifying the strength of your jaw and soft tissues.
Need Expert Advice? Contact Us Today!
Dr. Gordon E. Krueger, DDS, MS, PA, is a leader in the field of cosmetic and restorative dentistry. His team of consummate professionals will give you the advice and the care that you need to restore your healthiest smile. If you are considering dental implants as the right decision for you, give us a call today, or visit https://www.gordonekruegerdds.com. We will put you on the road to a bright, dazzling and healthy smile!
