Dentistry has come a long way since the days of losing the ability to chew because of missing teeth.  In today’s times, when a patient is missing one or more teeth, there are a variety of ways that they can replace them to enable proper function with chewing, help keep patients nutritional needs in place (aiding in proper digestion of foods) and keep the relationship of the neighboring teeth in proper occlusion to avoid temporalmandibular joint problems, commonly known as TMJ.

The methods of replacement include implants, removable appliances, and fixed bridges.  Your dentist will discuss these options with you and help you decide which method would best fit your needs.

What are dental implants?

Implants have been performed in the dental office for many years.  They have proved to be a successful method for replacing missing teeth and have gained acceptance with patients as a way to have artificial teeth that look and feel natural.

The implant itself is used like an artificial root to support the false tooth.  The dentist places the implant into a small hole made in the jawbone.  The implant is then given time to fully integrate and heal, usually 4-6 months.  The patient returns after this time and the new tooth is prepared and placed.  Implants can be used for single crowns, multiple unit bridges, and a means to help secure removable dentures through precision attachments made to “snap into” the denture.

Why a dental implant?

Implants have a large advantage over removable dentures.  Because removable dentures are not permanently fixed in place they can move around when you are speaking and eating.  Additionally, over time the supporting structures (bone and tissue) can shrink making it increasingly more difficult for the patient to achieve optimum results in wearing the denture comfortably.

Implants also have some advantages over fixed bridges.  If the teeth are healthy next to the missing tooth site, they need to be crowned as they are the support for the missing tooth to be replaced.  If the natural teeth are free of decay and existing restorations, it is always a better decision to leave them in their natural state.

Are dental implants successful?

While implants are highly successful, the success depends on several different factors.  The patient needs to have the proper amount of bone available to support the implant, the patient needs to be in good health, a non smoker and have excellent home care.  All of these factors affect long term success.

Replacing missing teeth is important in maintaining good dental health.  Your dentist can evaluate the conditions in your mouth and help you decide if you are a good candidate for dental implants.