If you are one of the millions of Americans missing one or more teeth, you’ve probably considered tooth replacement options to restore form and function to your smile. Although many people are tempted to go with dentures or partial bridges because of the lower upfront cost, Dental implants offer a tremendous number of benefits that less advanced options can’t.
Because they are anchored directly into your natural jawbone tissue, dental implants are strong, stable, and don’t compromise the strength and health of neighboring teeth. Dental implants also halt bone loss that can occur after teeth are lost, preserving your facial contours and jaw shape. Also, dental implants are easy to care for, since they just need daily brushing and flossing like the rest of your natural teeth.
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Dr. I. Stephen Brown.
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Types of Dental Implants
Dental implants are completely customized for each patient depending on the number of teeth they are missing, the shape of the arch, and the location of the missing tooth. If you are just missing a single tooth, you can have a single dental implant installed to fill the space. However, if you are missing multiple teeth and you are nervous about the cost of dental implants, implant retained dentures can dramatically reduce costs while improving your smile. Implant supported dentures consist of a realistic-looking denture that is anchored with two or more dental implants. In addition to looking realistic, these prosthetics stay strong and stable, and can be removed for adjustments down the road.
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Because the placement of dental implants relies heavily on your body’s natural ability to heal, patients need to be a good candidate for dental implants before undergoing the placement procedure. Here are just a few of the things good dental implant candidates have in common.
Commitment to Dental Hygiene
Although dental implants aren’t susceptible to tooth decay and infections, the rest of the teeth and surrounding tissues are, which can put the stability of the entire arch in jeopardy. Patients who are interested in dental implants should be committed to great oral hygiene, including daily brushing, flossing, and regular visits to an implant dentist.
Overall Health
To be a candidate for dental implants, you should be in good overall health and free of uncontrolled illnesses like cancer, diabetes, or anemia. For this reason, Dr. Brown will talk with you about your medical history and may request records from your primary care physician.
Medication History
Certain medications, including bisphosphonates, can change the way that bone tissue heals. Because of this, patients who have taken certain medications may be at a higher risk for certain complications, which could disqualify them from receiving dental implants.
Lifestyle Habits
Since smoking and drinking can affect tissue health and healing, patients should be committed to healthy lifestyle habits throughout their dental implant treatment timeline.
Preliminary Procedures
Although most people can have dental implants placed successfully, some patients need to undergo prerequisite procedures in order to prepare the bone and tissue for dental implants. For example, if you have lost teeth due to advanced periodontal disease, you might need bone grafting in order to build the size and strength of the bone tissue. If you have large maxillary sinuses, you might need a sinus lift in order to strengthen bone tissue in the back areas of the mouth.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re wondering if Dental implants are right for you, schedule an appointment with Dr. Brown. We’re dedicated to giving you the smile of your dreams. Make an appointment for your consultation today!
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