Do you have a single missing tooth that needs to be replaced? A traditional fixed bridge might be something you are contemplating as a possible solution to restore your smile, but have you considered allowing your dentist to place a dental implant? Do you know about the benefits it can provide that alternative methods can’t? Before you agree to this type of treatment, there’s a lot you should know. If you’re unsure where to start, let us help by recommending four questions you should ask before deciding whether to move forward with dental implants or not.
How Will My Oral Health Improve?
The most important benefit that comes with dental implants is that they will not only restore your smile’s aesthetics, but they will also improve your oral health. How? When a tooth is missing, this area of the bone is no longer receiving the stimulation it needs. However, with a dental implant, you can maintain a healthy facial structure and reduce your chances of bone resorption because these posts (implants) are surgically placed into the jawbone and replicating your natural tooth root, which is designed to stimulate your bone and prevent deterioration.
How Long Will My Dental Implant Last?
You may notice that dental implants are often more costly than their traditional counterparts. But they are much more cost-effective for many reasons, one of which is because of their longevity. Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. While the restoration (dental crown) will need to be replaced after some time, the post itself can last a lifetime, making it a much more reliable solution for tooth replacement.
Will My Implants Be Noticeable to Others?
One of the great things about dental implants is that they look and feel completely natural. When taking impressions and sending them off to a dental lab, technicians use the specifications and desired aesthetics to create a customized restoration that matches the color, size, and shape of your other teeth. When placed, it will blend in with the rest of your smile, making it virtually impossible for anyone to notice the difference between your implant and natural, healthy teeth.
Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Before you are given the green light for dental implant placement, you will need to see your dentist for a consultation. During this visit, they will examine your oral cavity in its entirety, looking specifically at your bone density. If strong enough to serve as a solid foundation for your dental implant, you will be able to move forward. If not, you may need to undergo a bone graft or sinus lift (depending on the location of the implant) to add bone minerals to the area and strengthen your jawbone.
Dental implants are one of the most superior forms of tooth replacement available, so if you are considering this type of restorative dentistry to restore your smile, make sure you have all the information you need to make a well-informed decision about your oral health.
About the Practice
At Advanced Dentistry of Alhambra, our team of dentists enjoys helping you and your family achieve optimal oral health. If you are missing one or more teeth and need a viable tooth replacement solution, we can use dental implants that are designed to replicate your natural tooth root and restore the look of your smile. Using only the very best materials and dental technology, you will feel confident and comfortable embracing new opportunities with a complete set of teeth. To find out if you are eligible for dental implants, contact us at (682) 289-6131.