Our teeth are very strong, but that does not mean we cannot lose our permanent teeth as adults. The loss of teeth becomes more likely as we age. It can also occur as a result of various oral health issues. For example, when people clench or grind their teeth in their sleep, it can put immense pressure on them, which may cause them to loosen. More severe forms of gum disease such as periodontitis can also contribute to tooth loss. Teeth may also need to be extracted, for example, if they become too decayed or heavily cracked.
The thought of losing one or more adult teeth can be frightening. When it happens, people often worry that the tooth or teeth are gone for good. Fortunately, dental implants offer a great replacement solution. A dental implant is a method of replacing teeth permanently by affixing a full crown (replacement tooth) directly to the jaw. Dental technology has made this procedure much more effective in the last decade or so. What’s more, an increasing number of dentists have received training and education on installing implants as their popularity increases.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is essentially a replacement tooth root. The root of the tooth is the lower portion that is usually hidden from view by the gumline. The root fuses to the bone of the jaw, which is what keeps it in place. When a tooth falls out or is extracted, it leaves an empty space. This space is where the dental implant is placed.
The implant itself is a metal fixture that is fused to the bone of the jaw where the tooth’s root once resided. Once that is complete, a full crown is attached to the fixture, creating a replacement tooth that looks and functions almost exactly like a natural one. The full crown, usually made of porcelain or ceramic, will be customized for you in a lab with the help of your dentist. It will match the shape and color of the missing tooth, giving it a natural look.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
For many, dental implants are replacing removable partial and full dentures as the go-to choice for replacing teeth. For one thing, they are permanent. Dentures must be removed for cleaning and maintenance. Implants only require the same care as your other teeth, like brushing, flossing, rinsing with mouthwash and getting dental checkups. They are also more durable than dentures, which can break of they fall out or are dropped. What’s more, they are securely fixed. Dentures tend to slide around in the mouth, affecting speech and eating. Implants secure the replacement tooth firmly to the jaw like a natural tooth, thus avoiding these issues.
If you have more questions about dental implants or would like to schedule a consultation to have one or more installed, contact Hall Family Dentistry today! We are a judgment-free Indianapolis family dentist offering general dentistry along with advanced procedures like dental implants. Call our office today at (317) 204-8096. You can also schedule an appointment online.