While bridges offer a solution to minor tooth loss, you’re looking at replacing them in as little as 10 years. What if we could offer a tooth replacement option that can last far longer? What if your new dental prosthetic could last decades, maybe even a lifetime? In today’s blog, your Prairie Village, KS, prosthodontist talks about implant dentistry.
The Risks of Tooth Loss
Tooth loss could be brought on by poor oral health, such as untreated tooth decay or dental infection. Periodontitis, the advanced stage of gum disease, is another major factor, as is injury to the face or jaw. When you lose teeth, the gap could cause surrounding teeth to move from their positions, creating misalignment that increases the risk of issues like cavities and periodontal disease. The changes to the overall balance of your bite could leave you vulnerable to TMJ disorder and bruxism (teeth grinding). The lack of tooth roots, means the body will stop sending calcium and phosphorus to the areas around the missing roots. Eventually, this could cause an aged appearance as the jaw breaks down, long with further tooth loss. But with the placement of a dental implant, we can help!
The Parts of Your Dental Implants
First, let’s look closely at the dental implant. We can use one to replace an individual missing tooth, or several to support a bridge or even a complete set of dentures. Each implant consists of three major portions. The actual implant is like a new root, a biocompatible titanium post that is inserted into the jaw directly at a specific depth, angle, and position. The body will see this as a new root, and this stimulates the growth of jawbone structure to prevent the breakdown associated with further tooth loss and an aged appearance. The next part is the abutment, a portion added to the post that extends above the gum line. The third portion is the part people see, a custom crown for an individual one, or portion of a bridge or denture if you have advanced tooth loss.
Securing Your New Tooth
With digital x-rays and intraoral cameras, our team will carefully examine your jaw to choose the best areas to insert the posts. Once we do, our team will guide them into place with advanced imaging technology, and anesthesia and sedation will ensure you’re comfortable throughout the entire procedure. When the area heals, we can add an abutment and connect a restoration to complete your new tooth.
Do You Have a Lost Tooth?
We want to help you obtain a complete smile again with new teeth ready to last decades. If you want a long-lasting solution to your missing teeth, then call your Overland Park and Prairie Village, KS prosthodontist, Dr. Stuart Dexter, DDS at (913)362-8200.