Dental Implants Offer Distinct Advantages Over Other Tooth Replacement Options
Until the advent of modern dental implant technology forty years ago, the only fixed tooth loss replacement option was a dental bridge. In order for a person to qualify for this treatment, it required a tooth to be present in each spot adjacent to the missing tooth. When this condition was met, each tooth was trimmed and reduced in size adequately enough that a dental bridge could be cemented over the top of them – bridging the gap for the missing tooth. If a person did not meet this requirement or if the span of missing teeth was too large to bridge, the only other option was a removable tooth replacement option, such as, a partial or full denture.
Today, implant dentistry is one of the fastest growing areas in dentistry. Over time, much research and many advancements have been made, prompting many people to forgo cosmetic dentures, partials and even fixed bridges in favor of dental implants. They offer distinct advantages over other tooth replacement options. Dental implants are not a substitute for natural teeth. They are an adequate replacement when natural teeth are lost, especially when compared to other artificial tooth replacement options.
The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons statistics show that 69% of adults ages 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth to an accident, gum disease, a failed root canal or tooth decay. Furthermore, by age 74, 26% of adults have lost all of their permanent teeth. Therefore, the use of dental implants reveals that about 100,000-300,000 dental implants are placed per year.
Dental implants, are actually “root replacements” that are restored with a prosthetic (artificial) tooth. Some of the benefits to patients of dental implants used as a tooth replacement option include:
· A permanent tooth replacement solution
· Optimal bite insured through guided 3D digital imaging during surgery
· Implant can be restored with various types of attachments, depending on the patient’s needs. The most popular type of attachment is a dental crown. Another specialized type of attachment is also available to secure dentures, and lock them into place. These types of removable dentures are called, implant retained dentures.
· Reduced bone loss
· Reduced teeth shifting
· Improved jaw support & muscular health
· Enhanced support of natural teeth, reducing wear and tear
· Greater comfort
· Enhanced chewing ability
· More enjoyable eating
· Improved speech
· Improved aesthetics and confidence
Dental implants are not the best fit for every patient. However, modern technology in dentistry has allowed dentists to combine the benefits of implants with fixed or removable prosthetics. These, and other combination tooth replacement solutions, such as, implant retained dentures, provide a less expensive solution for patients looking for greater comfort and security. For those individuals seeking traditional full or partial dentures, as well as, same day crown and bridge, these options continue to be available and are sufficient tooth replacement solutions as well.
Many people have questions about the various tooth replacement options, dental implants, the surgical implant process, sedation options, and financing options…read more
At London Smile Care we aim to provide our patients oral health education so they can make educated decisions and achieve optimal oral health
