Not replacing one or more missing teeth can be detrimental to the health and functionality of your smile. Failing to replace them can heighten your risk of other problems that may interfere with your everyday life.
This can be overcome by dental implants The Woodlands, which can effectively replace severely damaged or missing teeth to revitalize your smile, and oral health.
An introduction to dental implants
Dental implants are innovative replacements for missing teeth that are made up of titanium alloy. These artificial prosthesis mimic tooth roots, surgically inserted into your jawbone with the help of screw-like devices.
Titanium alloys are biocompatible, thus they fuse well with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. These implant posts provide an excellent anchorage to permanent restorations like bridges, crowns, and dentures. Your dentist will fabricate and mount customized crowns that serve as a replacement tooth onto the implant.
There are two types of dental implants:
- Endosteal implants: The type of implant that is inserted directly into the jawbone.
- Subperiosteal implants: This type of implant is placed on top of the jawbone, especially if you do not have sufficient bone density and thickness.
Benefits of dental implants
Dental implants are popular replacements for missing teeth due to the following benefits:
- Provide permanent tooth replacements
- Give you a feeling of natural teeth
- Improve speech and masticatory functions
- Provide a strong and stable foundation for dental crowns
- You do not have to remove them for cleaning since they are fixed prostheses
- Improves your overall appearance and self-confidence
- Prevents alveolar bone resorption
- Do not involve your adjacent teeth, thus leave your natural teeth intact
- Implants are durable with proper oral care, and can even last a lifetime
- It is a cost-effective solution
Considerations for being an ideal candidate for dental implants
Your dentist can determine if you are an ideal candidate for dental implants if you meet the following criteria:
- Have one or more missing teeth due to extensive tooth decay, trauma, or periodontal disease.
- Have good gum health
- Have sufficient bone thickness and density
- Willing to give time for dental visits while getting your implant
- Are an adult with jawbones that are fully developed
- Tired of ill-fitting dentures
- In search of a permanent solution
- Are dedicated to maintaining good oral hygiene
- Do not have unhealthy lifestyle habits like smoking
Takeaway
Dental implants are permanent fixtures in the bone that replace missing teeth. These have a high success rate, offering excellent benefits and long-lasting results.
However, consult your dentist if dental implants are the right choice of teeth replacement solution for you.