Missing Your Teeth? Learn What Dental Implants Can Do for You!

Dental implants provide the perfect answer if you’re wondering how to replace your missing teeth and regain your ability to eat the foods of your choice and smile with confidence. However, you may not be familiar with the process so your dentist weighs in to explain what dental implants are and the different types of them. Read on to learn how you can be restored!

What is a Dental Implant?

The dental implant is the best option for replacing a missing tooth because it attaches at the root level using a titanium post that is surgically inserted. Over time, the implant enjoins with your existing bone through a process called osseointegration. This is a key feature of the dental implant process because it creates a firm and durable foundation to support the dental restoration and your facial structure.

The Different Types of Dental Implants

Depending on your specific needs, your dentist offers the following options:

• Implant-Retained Crown – If you’re only missing one tooth, then a single implant will be inserted. After a sufficient amount healing has occurred, an abutment will later be added that connects the implant to a porcelain dental crown.
• Implant-Retained Bridge – If you have two or more teeth missing in a sequence, then your dentist will design an implant-retained bridge that consists of a series of dental crowns attached to the single fixture.
• Implant-Retained Dentures – Unlike traditional dentures, the implant-retained option ensures that your teeth won’t fall out and that you’ll be able to chew and taste your food normally. There are two types offered: hybrid dentures that can only be removed by your dentist and overdentures that you can remove on your own.

What is the Investment for Dental Implants?

The cost of dental implants depends majorly on your specific needs. Because it is a highly customized procedure, it’s impossible to get an accurate estimate without visiting your local dentist to have your mouth, gums and teeth (if present) examined.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that it’s not a good idea to bargain shop when it comes to dental implants. Unlike a broom, ink pen or even an automobile, the dental implant will become one with your body so you only want the finest materials to be used. Furthermore, it’s important to have the procedure conducted by an experienced professional.

Why a Consultation is So Important

Across the board, dental implant procedures have a 98% success rate. Part of the reason that percentage is so high is that your dentist will take the time to tediously evaluate your current oral health state. He or she will be looking to identify how much healthy bone you have available to determine if the new implant will be able to seat properly.

The dentist will also evaluate your current state of health to make sure you can withstand the anesthesia that is given before the surgery starts.

Finally, you’ll receive a detailed breakdown of the cost of the procedure so you can plan accordingly. By taking the proactive steps toward receiving a tooth replacement, with the help of your dentist, you can soon enjoy a normal life!

About the Author

Dr. Kenneth J. Canzoneri is a graduate of Northwestern Dental School, and throughout his career, he’s maintained the same passion to help patients that he had when he first earned his dental degree. He is a member of several professional organizations, including the Academy of General Dentistry and the Southern California Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Canzoneri replaces missing teeth with dental implants at his private practice, and he can be reached for more information through his website.