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Are you missing a tooth or multiple teeth? Statistics show that the majority of adults age 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth to an accident, gum disease, a failed root canal or tooth decay. Twenty years ago, the only alternative was to employ a fixed bridge or removable denture to restore your ability to eat, speak clearly and smile. Otherwise, the tooth would be extracted. Today there is another option for patients who are missing permanent teeth. Replace Missing Teeth Dental implants today are virtually indistinguishable from your other teeth. The appearance is aided in part by the structural and functional connection between the dental implant and the living bone. Implants are typically placed in one sitting, but require a period of osseointegration, which direct anchorage of the implant root and the bone of the jaw occurs. Osseointegrated implants are the most commonly used and successful type of dental implant, taking anywhere from three to six months to anchor and heal. Once healed and anchored, your dentist can complete the procedure with the placement of a crown. As soon as the implant has anchored with the jawbone, artificial prosthesis may be attached and the process is completed. Support Loose Dentures Having a loose or ill-fitting denture can create a whole set of new problems. These can include cosmetic issues and the functionality of your mouth. If you are missing several or all of your teeth, dental implants can be used to stabilize or support a denture. Worry of slipping dentures or dealing with messy adhesives will be a thing of the past with the help of dental implants. Implants will also help maintain the surrounding bone, protecting your long-term facial appearance. Many people suffer needlessly with a loose lower denture, but with the use of two dental implants placed in the front of the lower jaw, it can be tightened. The denture will be held in place securely and can be snapped in or out. Are You a Candidate? Dental implants have become the treatment of choice for replacing missing teeth. The ideal candidate for dental implants is in good general and oral health with adequate jaw bone. Proper bone in your jaw is needed in order to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease. Whether you need to replace one tooth, several teeth or all of your teeth, there is a dental implant solution for you. Your dentist will evaluate your bone density and quantity in order to assess your candidacy for a dental implant. In some cases where bone loss has occurred due to periodontal disease, implants may not be advised. In certain cases, though, bone grafting can be derived from your bone, a synthetic bone or a bovine bone to provide the right support for your implant. A higher rate of implant failure occurs in people who take immune-suppressants and in smokers. If you are missing a tooth or multiple teeth, contact your Radcliff dentist for further consultation. Dental implants are not for everyone, but your dentist will be able to assess your teeth and generate a proper treatment plan for restoring your smile.
Sean Hartmen writes for leading Elizabethtown and Radcliff cosmetic dentist at Dyer Family Dentistry, Dr. Marc Dyer. Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, Dr. Dyer graduated from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry earning his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree. Dyer Family Dentistry offers services in teeth whitening, crowns, veneers, and dental implants in Radcliff.
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