Dental implants are a permanent replacement for lost teeth. Whether you have one tooth missing or need to have all your teeth replaced, dental implants could be the solution. Dentures, partials or bridges are always options, but the advantage that implants have over all of these methods is that they are permanent. This not only means you don’t have to remove them for cleaning, but that they also replace the roots of your lost teeth, providing a solid foundation and preventing bone loss. That will keep you from getting the sunken cheeks and lips that happens over time to people who only wear dentures or a bridge.
Dental implants are made of titanium at the base and a strong dental crown, or artificial tooth, at the top. The process of getting dental implants takes time, but it’s well worth it. First, the implants are surgically positioned in your jaws. After your mouth heals, the crowns are placed. Depending on how many teeth are missing and what type of implants you are receiving, the crowns may be individual, in short rows or complete dentures that are attached permanently to the implants.
Implants require care just like natural teeth. Without proper care, they could suffer from problems like natural teeth can. But with proper care, they can last for your entire life.
Dental implants are not new; they have been successfully used for decades, and have a success rate of nearly 100 percent. But not everyone is a good candidate for implants. Dr. Hill consults with each patient who is interested in dental implants and performs a complete dental exam. Additionally, she will ask questions about your health history as well as your oral health. Some health issues, including diabetes and smoking, may make it less likely that your body will accept implants. It is also necessary for your jaw to have enough healthy bone for the implants to be inserted into. If you have lost a lot of jaw bone due to being without teeth for a long time, there still may be some types of implants that could work for you. There are other options that could make implants possible for people with less bone, like bone grafting.
Getting dental implants to replace missing teeth is a big step, and it doesn’t happen overnight. But life with implants has so many advantages over having dentures or a bridge that it is truly the next best thing to having your natural teeth.
If you are interested in learning more about dental implants, call us at our Alexandria, VA office to set up a consultation appointment with Dr. Jessica Hill. Remember that we will ask you questions about your health, family health history and oral health, so be ready with as much information as you can provide. During the consultation we will answer all your questions too. If together we decide that dental implants are the right choice for you, we will be with you every step of the way towards your new, permanent teeth and beautiful smile.