|
If you are missing a single tooth or multiple teeth, implants are available for restoring your smile. Dental implants offer stability because they are fused to your bone and also help your replacement teeth feel more natural. Many people also find the secure fit more comfortable than conventional substitutes. Candidates for dental implants need to have healthy gums and adequate bone to support an implant. A thorough examination by your dentist will help to determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants or not. Are You a Candidate? To determine if dental implants are appropriate for your smile restoration, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums to evaluate the bone density and quantity. This may involve x-rays and CT scans to ensure there is sufficient bone structure for placing the implant and to determine exactly where the implant should be placed. Based on the condition of your oral tissues, oral hygiene, personal habits, and commitment to follow aftercare instructions, your dentist will advise you of the best treatment plan for restoring your smile. Some patients with insufficient bone or gum tissue require bone or soft tissue grafts or the use of mini-implants. If you smoke, your dentist will most likely advise you to quit before undergoing a dental implant procedure as smokers face a higher risk for implant failure. A higher rate of implant failure can also occur in those who take immune-suppressants. Single, Multi and Full Mouth Implants There are a variety of dental implants that can be used to replace single, multiple, or full mouth gaps from missing teeth. Dental implants can also be used in conjunction with crowns, bridges and dentures in replacing missing teeth. A single tooth implant with crown restoration is the best permanent solution that looks and functions just like a natural tooth. Single dental implants are done when one tooth is missing. Having a crown on an implant is similar to having crowns done over an existing tooth. A laboratory milled abutment is screwed into the implant posts and acts as the "stump" that holds the crown. When you have more than one missing tooth, multiple dental tooth implants are performed. If there are missing gaps together, dental implants accompanied by dental bridges may be done. If there are missing gaps in separate locations, then individual single tooth implants with a dental crown or a combination of implants with crowns and dental bridges may be used in replacing the gaps. Full mouth dental implantation is performed in cases where patients have no existing teeth left or for cases where the removal of all existing teeth is needed. A combination of full arch dental implants may be performed in reconstructing both arches. This allows patients to have a new set of teeth, ultimately improving their quality of life. If you are missing a tooth or multiple teeth, talk to your dentist in Amarillo about whether dental implants are an appropriate solution for regaining your smile. Not everyone is a candidate for dental implants. Like any restoration, implants require diligent oral hygiene and proper care to ensure they last a long time.
Sean Hartmen writes for leading Amarillo dentist, Dr. Ken Comer. Practicing quality dental care for 20 years with a focus in the treatment of oral-facial pain, endodontic, TMD, restorative, cosmetic and Amarillo implants, Dr. Comer is committed to providing the best in quality care for patients of every age.
|
