Dental Implants: Options for Multiple or Single Tooth Replacement
Don't let missing teeth cause you embarrassment. Dental implants provide a permanent solution for the replacement of single or multiple teeth. To discuss your personal treatment options, we invite you to schedule a consultation with cosmetic dentist Edward Narcisi. In the meantime, the following is an overview of dental implant treatments for single or multiple tooth replacement.
Replacing Teeth with Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a permanent solution to permanently replacing one or more teeth. Dental implants are titanium screw-like posts that are surgically placed within the jawbone. The jawbone heals around the implant to form a permanent, secure bond. Dental implants basically act as prosthetic tooth roots to which different types of dental restorations can be attached. The type of dental restoration used generally depends on the number of teeth needing replacement as well as individual preference. Dental restorations used with dental implants include dental crowns, implant-supported bridges, and implant-supported dentures.
- Dental Crowns: Dental implants used with dental crown restorations are best used for replacing individual teeth. If you are only missing one or two teeth, dental implants with crown restorations are typically the best treatment. Though a full set of teeth can be replaced with individual implants and dental crowns, this is not the most time or cost effective treatment. For multiple tooth replacement implant-supported bridges or dentures may be a better option.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: Implant-supported dental bridges are used to replace multiple teeth with only one or two dental implant, making them best suited to situations in which two or more consecutive teeth need replacement. Implant-supported bridges consist of one or more artificial teeth that bridge the gap between missing teeth.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: Full sets of teeth can be replaced with implant-supported dentures. Implant-supported dentures use three to five dental implants to securely attach the dentures within the mouth. Implant-supported dentures attach by either a stud system or a metal bar, which allows them to be removed for ease of cleaning. Implant-supported dentures allow you to eat and speak with the confidence of knowing your dentures are securely in place. Implant-supported dentures eliminate the need for messy adhesives while still allowing you to enjoy foods most removable dentures wearers generally need to avoid.
Experience the Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer many benefits including increased self-esteem, improved aesthetics, and improved tooth function. Though many people make great candidates for dental implants, dental implants require minor surgery and as such, are not suitable for everyone. Candidates for dental implants should be healthy enough to tolerate surgery, and have good oral health to reduce the risk of infection or other complications. Candidates must also have sufficient jawbone. Fortunately, a bone graft may be performed to rebuild the jaw if needed. See for yourself how dental implants are changing patients’ lives! To learn more about dental implant treatment or to schedule your personal consultation, we welcome you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Narcisi today!