Dental implants: treatment for tooth loss
Losing a tooth can have a dramatically negative impact on its appearance. Tooth loss can also cause problems speaking and chewing, as well as weakening and movement of other teeth. Missing a tooth can also lead to bite problems and jaw erosion.
There are many reasons for tooth loss, including poor oral hygiene and gum disease, poor nutrition, and accidents. About 69% of adults ages 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth.
One of the main reasons for tooth loss is cavities. Plaque builds up in the mouth when teeth are not brushed or flossed regularly or properly. Plaque contains sugars and acids that eat through tooth enamel and cause cavities. If deterioration is not stopped, the damage can lead to tooth loss.
Accidents involving major impacts, such as falls, sports injuries, and car accidents, can also cause tooth loss. According to recent studies, most Americans will have lost an average of 12 teeth by age 50, and one in four people will have lost all of their teeth by age 60.
Dental implants are one of the most popular treatments to replace missing teeth. The implants are made of titanium, a metal known for its strength and resistance to corrosion. They look like the normal root of a tooth. Designed to fuse with bone, they provide the foundation for replacement teeth, including crowns, bridges, and dentures.
During the second stage of the procedure, a small amount of gum is removed to expose the top of the implant. An abutment (connecting element) is placed on the part of the implant that appears above the gum line. After the abutment has healed, a crown is placed. The process of fusing the implant with the jaw provides greater strength and stability for the new tooth. It also helps to ensure that the tooth looks natural.
Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple missing teeth. Unlike removable dentures, they do not sit on the gums, slide or click. They are not anchored to adjacent teeth like bridges, nor do they require the teeth in the mouth to be reduced in size.
The benefits of dental implants include a more attractive appearance, greater comfort, and better speech. The implants will also make food easier to eat and chew because they work exactly like your own normal teeth.
With the exception of young children, anyone with missing teeth is a good candidate for dental implants. Dental implants can also replace existing bridges or dentures.
The success rate of dental implants is extremely high. However, they should be cared for like natural teeth, including regular brushing and flossing. If properly maintained, dental implants will last for many years.
If you are missing teeth, consult a dental surgeon who knows how to implant teeth. During your initial consultation, you can learn more about the procedure, the results you can expect, and the cost of dental implants in your area.