Many people are missing at least one and more often many or all of their teeth. Through genetics, habits, and lifestyle demands, it can be difficult to keep up with all of the requirements of good dental health, which may include brushing, flossing, and regular exams. Fortunately, with the aid of Olympia Prosthodontics & Cosmetic Dentistry, we can help you to restore your missing teeth and exhibit a smile as natural as the one you were born with.
WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Though many people may believe that a dental implant is the replacement of a single tooth with a prosthetic, the reality of it is that the implant is much more versatile than that. While yes, it can be used to restore a tooth, it may also be beneficial to the restoration of the entire mouth.
A dental implant is a tiny piece of titanium, in the shape of a bolt, that is used as a surrogate anchor for a missing tooth. It is inserted into the socket and allowed to fuse with the bone. Through the process of osseointegration, the metal and bone can become one and may serve as an effective replacement for a root.
If you lose a tooth, in time, your cells will stop regenerating the area that the tooth was in. This may compromise the structure of the surrounding teeth and may cause them to get loose or fall out as well. With an implant, however, it is like the tooth was never lost and your cells should continue to regenerate your mouth for many years to come.
HOW IMPLANTS MAY BENEFIT YOU
For those who are missing more than one or all of their teeth, there are ways to use implants to help you. In the instance of multiple teeth missing, bridges may be created using implants with dental crowns. Rather than having to get several implants for each tooth and wait for them all to heal, you may only need to get two anchoring implants which may be used to support multiple crowns.
In the case of those who are missing all of their teeth, we can use 3D imaging to create a custom-designed set of teeth which can be secured through the use of implants. Rather than resorting to adhesives or suction to keep them in your mouth, they are attached through the titanium implants. This keeps them firmly in place, which means they should not move unless you are deliberately taking them out. Because they are composed of less material, this means that those who have a sensitive gag reflex may be able to wear dentures now whereas they were not able to before.
If you already have dentures, they can be fitted with implant attachments so you can continue to enjoy the teeth you are already comfortable with. You should be able to eat without worrying that your dentures will come out and speak with more confidence knowing that your teeth are securely in your mouth.
For those who are missing multiple teeth, you may find that implants could help you regain your confidence while helping to restore your oral health with a stronger bone foundation. If you are interested in learning more about implants and how they could benefit you, please give us here at Olympia Prosthodontics & Cosmetic Dentistry a call at (360) 456-1200 to schedule an appointment.