Tooth loss can be a troubling thing for many adults, regardless of the cause. Whether due to gum disease, trauma or another oral health condition, losing a tooth can cause a host of subsequent problems, such as problems chewing and a lack of confidence when smiling. Over time, even a single missing tooth can also cause problems for the other teeth’s alignment, and eventually changes to the jaw’s structure, as well. Fortunately, modern prosthetic dentistry provides a number of ways to cope with tooth loss and complete the smile. One of the most popular, of which, is dental implants, a long-lasting and sturdy way to complete a smile.
What Makes Implants Different?
Dentures and dental bridges remain popular ways to address adult tooth loss, but they are not as permanent as dental implants. That is because only dental implants utilize a surgically affixed post to help stabilize a replacement tooth and also to help mimic a natural tooth root. This not only creates added security while chewing, it also helps to nourish the jaw as a healthy tooth root does.
For patients concerned with the longevity of their prosthetic, as well as their comfort while chewing, implants are often the ideal form of prosthetic treatment.
How Do You Know If You’re a Candidate?
In order to be a good candidate for a dental implant, you will need to have good oral health. That is because healthy gum tissue is essential to allowing the post used for an implant, to first be placed, effectively. Osseointegration, where the gum tissue grows around the post, is also reliant on healthy gums.
A thorough examination can help your dentist determine if your smile is currently healthy enough for a dental implant to be a viable option. In some cases, periodontal therapy may be able to help restore the gums’ health, making implants an option!
