Problem #1: A Full Arch
of Missing Teeth Dentures do have their
place, and there are some people who manage fine with them. But
there are many others who struggle with them daily, often to the
point that the life they once knew has been changed
significantly to accommodate the dentures. For those who are
tired of dentures that do not seem to fit well for very long
(because bone keeps receding), speaking and laughing with
confidence has become a thing of the past, favorite foods are
only a memory, or life has become an endless ordeal of "sore"
spots, dental implants may be the solution for which you have
dreamed.
Problem #2: One or a Few
Missing Teeth
If you have
just one, or a few missing teeth, the decision to compromise
the surrounding intact teeth (so they can become the needed
anchors for a bridge or partial) probably bothers you. And it should.
You may also be concerned about the loss of jaw bone where the
tooth is missing. When the bone is not stimulated by the forces
naturally being placed on it by the root of the tooth, the bone
starts deteriorating. You understand that over time, this can
cause the surrounding teeth to collapse toward the gap, as well
as enable gum problems. There was a time when there was no
better choice available to you. Now there is a good, tested,
and proven solution - dental implants.
A
Good Solution for Both:
Ideal for missing teeth, dental
implants are the closest approximation to natural teeth
available. They are constructed to imitate a natural tooth as
much as possible, being anchored in the jaw with a "post" which
functions similar to the root of a tooth. (This post is what
gives the dental implant its inherent stability, as well as the
ability to stimulate the "foundation" bone.) After the post has
had time for the bone to heal and become solid around it, the
restoration is attached. There are several different types of
restorations available, depending on the individual's needs and
desires: single-tooth
replacement, multiple-tooth
replacement, or full arch tooth
replacement.
Dental implants are definitely
not a "one size fits all" solution. Each person's situation and
solution is very personalized. Bone density and loss need to be
evaluated. Forces exerted on the area are analyzed based on
bite and any surrounding or opposing teeth. Medical history is
important. The individual's desires and expectations for the
final outcome obviously have great influence. Financial
considerations may also be a factor. Many times, more than one
treatment option is possible, and tailoring the treatment for an
outcome that is best for YOU only happens after careful
technical analysis, as well as understanding your needs and
wants. We encourage you to read the
Dental Implant Q&A's, then contact us to set up a personal
consultation with Dr. Snodgrass.
With his analysis, you will be enabled to make an informed
decision based on the options available for your unique
situation, and find out whether dental implants will be able to
make an improvement for your life.