With advancements in dental technology, the options to improve, restore, and reshape teeth are bountiful. Missing a tooth or teeth can cause rapid bone loss, extreme discomfort and impact our overall quality of life. As a top tooth replacement option, dental implants can give that glow back to your smile.
What Are Dental Implant Restorations?
Dental implants are an artificial root, commonly made of titanium; a tooth made from porcelain; and an abutment, the mechanism to connect the root and restoration. These materials are durable and compatible with hard tissue, meaning they can integrate with the jawbone and become permanent. Your dentist will surgically place the titanium implant into the jawbone by making a small incision. Over a few months, the titanium implant will integrate with the bone. Once the osseointegration is complete, the restoration and abutment will be attached to the titanium post.
Dental implants operate as regular teeth would. You may even forget you have one. Choosing to replace missing teeth with an implant will benefit your overall health in many ways, including proper function, it is fixed vs having a removable prosthesis, and can last a life-time with proper care.
What are the Different Types of Dental Implant Restorations?
After a consultation with your dentist, they will determine how many teeth need to be replaced. They will evaluate your general and oral health, gum tissue, and jawbone to ensure everything is in optimal condition for the procedure. Three main types of restorations can be attached to a dental implant post.
Single Tooth Implants
Single implant restorations replace a single missing tooth. The dental crown will be crafted to match the neighboring teeth for a more natural smile. It’s essential to replace missing teeth to prevent shifting of the adjacent teeth which can cause TMJ disorder and uneven forces to the rest of the teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridge
A dental implant bridge may be a better option to fill the gap if you have multiple missing teeth in a row. In comparison, conventional bridges are inserted using crowns on the neighboring teeth, which are altered to fit with the false tooth and cemented in place. The benefits implant bridges have versus traditional bridges is the protection it brings your gum tissue and jawbone against degeneration and the ability to leave your healthy surrounding teeth untouched. Not to mention, your facial structure will improve significantly.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant dentures are for individuals who are missing many or all teeth. Multiple titanium implants throughout the jaw with abutments that will attach to a full arch of dentures. The great thing about implants versus conventional dentures is that implants are more stable and durable, allowing you to enjoy foods you once couldn’t. You can also easily remove them for cleaning and snap them back into place when done.
Ideal Candidate for Dental Implants
After the consultation with your dentist, they will determine which procedure is best for you and if your jawbone and gums are in good health. This is essential for a dental implant procedure because when teeth are missing, it leaves us vulnerable to jaw degeneration. Weak jawbones won’t be able to support the implants. In that case, your dentist may suggest bone grafting. Lastly, patients should be willing to take care of their dental implants like regular teeth to prevent infection.
Restore Your Health and Smile
We are dedicated to providing compassionate dental care and have years of experience in helping people achieve the smile of their dreams. For your Waterville and Winthrop, Maine dental needs, call Smile Solutions of Maine to schedule an implant consultation.