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Millions of adults have lost one or more of their teeth due to oral diseases, or injury. Missing teeth can make chewing difficult, cause problems speaking, and impact a person's sense of self-esteem. Visiting your dentist about tooth replacements, such as dental implants, can be an important part of maintaining your dental health. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that your dentist inserts into your jaw to replace lost teeth. Putting in dental implants involves the surgical placement of a metal post into the bone underneath your gums. They are often a preferred tooth replacement option because they do not affect the adjacent teeth like a bridge does. What Causes Tooth Loss? Gum disease, which is the inflammation or infection of the gum tissues surrounding the teeth, is the leading cause for tooth loss in adults. When gum disease has progressed to an advanced stage, it causes the degradation of the bone supporting the tooth, leading to the loosening of the tooth that eventually falls out.
Teeth can also be lost because of:
* Tooth decay
* Root canal failure
* Trauma to the mouth
* Excessive wear and tear Consultation, Placement, and Recovery To determine if implants are right for you, a consultation with your dentist is needed. During your appointment, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums while evaluating bone density and quantity. This may involve x-rays and computer tomography (CT) scans to ensure there is sufficient bone structure for placing the implant(s), and to determine exactly where the implant should be placed. Based on the condition of your oral tissues, oral hygiene and personal habits, and commitment to follow aftercare instructions, your dentist will advise you of the most appropriate dental implant treatment plan. Some patients with insufficient bone or gum tissue require bone or soft tissue grafts and the use of small diameter implants (mini implants). Depending on your situation, your dentist will advise you of how long your entire treatment process will take, how many appointments will be necessary and what you can expect after your procedure. Benefits of Dental Implants Dental implants are stronger and more durable than their restorative counterparts, such as crowns and bridges that are cemented into place or dentures that are removable. Implants offer a permanent solution to tooth loss. When used to support a dental bridge or dental crown, because multiple teeth are missing, dental implants represent a cavity-resistant and stable foundation for these restorations. Although there are many restorative options for replacing missing teeth, none have proven as functionally effective and durable as dental implants. If you have lost a tooth or multiple teeth, contact your dentist in Peoria, AZ for more information on dental implants and if they are an appropriate treatment for you. Remember, however, not everyone is a candidate for dental implants, but with a proper consultation your dentist can diagnose and create a proper treatment plan for restoring your smile.
Dr. Yati Yadav, Peoria dentist, Dr. Ben Koolick, DDS and the Your Family Dentist team are committed to making patients smile. They work hard to make the dental experience the best it can possibly be. Since opening in February of 2004, Your Family Dentist, PC has been providing high quality dental care, such as Peoria dental implants, in a state-of-the-art facility to patients of all ages.
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