Dental implants are an increasingly popular option for replacing missing teeth and restoring oral health. They are titanium screws surgically placed into the jawbone to provide a sturdy and long-lasting foundation for a replacement tooth or bridge.
While dental implants have been around for several decades, many people still have misconceptions about them. Most people think they’re only for older individuals or those with extensive dental problems. However, the truth is that dental implants can benefit people of all ages and can be essential to maintaining good dental health.
But before we proceed, you might be wondering: What’s wrong with missing teeth?
Here are three reasons why you should take this dental issue seriously:
- Losing a tooth can trigger a chain reaction of dental problems that are nothing to smile about. The teeth around the gap can start to move and shift, throwing off the delicate balance of your bite and causing instability that only worsens over time.
- When a tooth is lost, the teeth above or below the gap can also be affected. These teeth may start to grow to fill the space, leading to sore spots and discomfort along the gumline.
- Last but not least, a missing tooth causes bone resorption, which happens when the jawbone lacks stimulation due to a missing tooth. While some dental techniques can help, it’s not always possible to fully restore the natural gum and bone structure
It’s crucial to consider implants sooner rather than later. Don’t let missing teeth compromise your oral health and facial appearance!
How Does the Procedure Work?
Your dentist will take scans and x-rays to determine which size of implant is the best for you. Once the implant is inserted into the jaw, a healing cap is placed so that your gums form naturally to the implant. After the implant has had time to integrate into your jaw, usually around 3 months, the implant will be stable enough to have a permanent crown placed.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are a common alternative to dental implants for those with missing teeth. A dental bridge is made of crowns on either side of the missing tooth that support a pontic, or the false tooth, and is cemented in place. Dental bridges can be made using aesthetic materials that can match your natural tooth shade.
Advantages of Dental Bridges
Compared to dental implants, dental bridges are considered less invasive because they don’t require any surgical placement into the jaw. This means you can achieve a beautiful, natural-looking smile without undergoing a complex procedure.
Procedure and Recovery Process for Dental Bridges
The procedure for dental bridges involves preparing the teeth on either side of the gap by removing some of the enamel. This makes room for the dental crowns or attachments that will hold the bridge in place. The bridge is then fabricated in a dental lab to match the shape and color of the surrounding teeth. After the bridge is placed, there may be some temporary discomfort or sensitivity, but most patients can resume normal activities within a few days.
Who Are the Best Candidates for a Dental Bridge?
If the teeth next to the space have decay or older fillings, a dental bridge would be the most cost efficient solution, because those teeth would need treatment anyway. Dental bridges are also great for patients who do not want to wait through a 3 month healing period before getting a permanent crown. They are also the better option for patients who aren’t ideal candidates for dental implants due to factors such as bone loss and underlying health conditions.
How Much Do Dental Bridges Cost?
When it comes to cost, dental bridges can be less expensive than dental implants but the price can vary depending on the specific needs of the patient and the materials used. It’s important to discuss cost considerations with your dentist before making a decision.
Age and Dental Implants
Only some people are candidates for dental implants, as certain factors must be considered.
Health Conditions and Bone Structure
When considering dental implants, one’s overall health and the condition of the jawbone play a vital role in determining suitability.
Those with underlying health conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or heart disease, may not be good candidates. These conditions can increase the risk of complications during and after the implant procedure. Additionally, those with significant bone loss in the jaw may need additional procedures, such as bone grafts, to build up the bone before implant placement.
Dental Implants Are for All Ages
It’s a common misconception that dental implants are only suitable for older people. But the truth is, age is just a number when it comes to implants. Dental implants can last 25 years or more if taken care of properly, which makes them a great option to replace missing teeth in younger, healthy patients as well as elderly ones.
Dental Implants in Little Rock
Dental implants can play a vital role in good dental health. They’re a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution for missing teeth. Most importantly, they offer a wide range of benefits, including improved functionality, comfort, and aesthetics.
Dental implants and dental bridges are both great options for those looking to restore missing teeth. Each has its unique advantages and disadvantages. People of all ages should consider dental implants as a viable option for better dental health and quality of life.
It’s important to remember that whether someone can get dental implants or not depends on their health and the bone structure of their jaw. So, talking to a dental professional is necessary to determine the best plan for your specific needs and goals. If you’re in the Central Arkansas, area, make an appointment with our warm and approachable dental professionals at Arkansas Family Dental. We provide the care and attention that your precious teeth deserve so that you can show off your beautiful smile confidently for a long time!
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