Dental implants have become the premiere restoration option when it comes to replacing missing teeth. Where dentures were once the only solution, more and more adults are choosing dental implants.
However, many people remain undecided about how to treat their tooth loss. If you’ve considered dental implants, you likely have questions about what is involved and how it will impact your life. If so, these are the five things you should know before you decide on implants.
1. Implants are Permanent
Unlike dentures, which the wearer must remove regularly, dental implants are surgically placed into the jaw. A titanium post is anchored within the jaw bone, and the bone fuses to the post. The dental prosthetic is then attached to the implant. If the prosthetic is broken or damaged, a new one can easily be crafted and put into place.
2. Implants Offer Many Options
Dental implants offer reliable support and can be adjusted to various situations. Whether you are missing a single tooth, a row of teeth, or an entire dental arch, implants can be used to remedy your tooth loss. Depending on your unique bone structure, it may be possible to replace an entire arch of teeth using as few as four implants (though six to eight is more common).
3. Implants Can Be Fixed or Removable
Most single-tooth and implant-supported bridges or partial dentures are fixed into place on the implant. For full dentures, however, there is also the option of removable dentures. These are similar to normal dentures, but they use the implants to stay in place rather than suction or adhesive cream. This method uses fewer implant posts but does require you to remove and clean the prosthetic nightly as you would with normal dentures.
4. Implants Protect Against Bone Loss
When a tooth is extracted or knocked out, the jaw bone no longer receives the chewing pressure it had before. The body stops maintaining jaw bone volume, resulting in bone loss and can significantly alter the shape of the face.
Implants are the only tooth replacement option that provides an anchor similar to a tooth root. This restores chewing force and preserves your jaw bone density.
5. You Need Sufficient Bone Density for Implants
If you’ve already experienced substantial bone loss, the implants likely won’t have the support they need to stay in place. In some cases, this can be fixed with a bone graft, which adds bone density to your jaw. Once the graft has healed, your dentist can place the implant successfully. Your dentist will discuss your unique situation with you and let you know if implants or bone grafting is an appropriate option.
Denture and Implant Center of Fresno offers the skill and experience to provide you with quality implants. For more information, contact our office today.