It is estimated that more than 175 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. This is unfortunate because it is unnecessary to go through life missing some or all of your teeth. Thanks to innovations and technology, today missing teeth can be replaced with state-of-the-art dental implants. Dental implants not only look like natural teeth, but they also function like natural teeth. Available to replace a single missing tooth, multiple teeth in a row, or to complete a full arch of teeth, dental implants offer the promise of a beautiful smile and a healthy mouth to anyone missing teeth. Better yet, dental implants will last more than 20 years with proper care, and in many cases may last a lifetime.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants stand as the single best choice for replacing missing teeth. The reason? Dental implants help preserve your jaw bone. When teeth are missing, the density of the jaw bone begins to diminish. This is because there is no tooth root affixed to the bone. When the bone is not needed to anchor the tooth in place it begins to recede. A deteriorated jaw bone leaves a sunken, aged look in the face.
Dental implants prevent further loss of jaw bone because the biocompatible screw that is implanted in the jaw bone fulfills the function of a tooth root. Once the screw is implanted, your body will undergo an incredible process known as osseointegration. This is the process in which tissues begin growing up the screw and anchoring it into the jaw. Osseointegration generally takes several months. Once the screw is firmly intact, the artificial tooth (crown) can be affixed to it. The result is a natural-looking and natural functioning replacement tooth.
Dental implants also fit perfectly in your mouth, so you won’t have to worry about slippage or shifting, as you may experience with dentures. Dental implants are also easy to clean. No special brushes or flossing tools are needed. They require the same maintenance as your regular teeth.
Many individuals will be excellent candidates for dental implants. Others may need to undergo treatment to build up bone density to support the implants, before getting implant surgery.
Should I Get Dental Implants, Bridges, or Dentures?
Dental implants are far superior to other restorations to replace missing teeth. No other options prevent the loss of your jaw bone the way that dental implants do. Dental implants are also much longer-lasting than a bridge or dentures.
Occasionally the best solution is a combination of implants and dentures, or implants and a bridge. An implant-supported bridge can be a great option if you’re missing three or more teeth in a row. Implant-supported bridges use two implants with a bridge between them. Another option can be implant-supported dentures. These require just 4-6 implants to provide a full upper or lower arch of teeth. If you’re ready to replace missing teeth, talk with your dentist about the best options for your unique concerns.
Learn More About Dental Implants in Gonzales, LA
Located less than 30 minutes from Baton Rouge, Dr. Byron Rome provides dental implants at our state-of-the-art dental practice in Gonzales, LA. Dr. Rome earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the LSU School of dentistry and has been providing the area’s best preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dental treatments for more than 20 years. To schedule a consultation to discuss replacing missing teeth with dental implants, contact our friendly staff at 225-621-2701 . You are also welcome to request an appointment online.