Missing teeth are always very noticeable when you smile. They also tend to make you look older. Replacing your missing teeth with dental implants is the best option you can get. They are not only permanent, but they also look and act like your own natural teeth.
Problems with Other Options
When you get a partial denture, or a full one, there is always the problem that it can slip. This is not only embarrassing at times, but it can also make it difficult to speak clearly, or to eat what you want. You have to be selective about your diet.
Another problem with dentures is that they can irritate the gums and have to be adjusted occasionally because your jaw will shrink. This can cause dentures to become painful.
About Dental Implants
Implants are different because they are made of titanium. This is a biocompatible metal which means that your body will not reject it. Once installed, the gum and bone tissue will attach to it and anchor it in place just like a normal tooth. This makes it permanent and just as stable as your real teeth.
When you have a missing tooth, the bone under that socket will partially be reabsorbed. You could lose about 50 percent of the bone there, which will weaken your jaw and make it smaller. When a dental implant is put there, it prevents bone loss, and it will also help to keep your teeth from drifting.
The Two Types of Implants
There are two types of implants. The first type is called an endosteal implant and it is placed into the jaw bone just like a regular tooth. It is the most common type. The other type is called a subperiosteal implant and it rests on top of the jaw bone but under the gums. This kind is used when there is not enough bone present.
The Installation Procedure
When an implant is to be installed, it is surgically put into the jawbone – basically screwed in. the total implant consists of three pieces: the titanium implant, the abutment, and the crown. When installed, the base of the implant is put in place. The other two components are put in place later, after healing has occurred.
Some dentists will install the complete system on the same day. Many others will not. Once an implant has been placed, it takes three to six months for the bone and gums to attach to the implant and anchor it.
The Best Candidates
An implant can be put in place at the same time that you have an extraction. It will depend on whether or not you have sufficient bone and gums or not. Your mouth will need to be free of gum disease before you can receive an implant. Also, if there is not enough bone present, you may need to have bone grafting and possibly gum grafting if your gums have receded.
Dental implants are certainly the best way to replace missing teeth and give you a great smile again. Call us, (914) 732-3377 today for more information or to make an appointment.