Dental Implants for Replacing Missing Teeth

Dental Implants for Replacing Missing Teeth from Gledhill Dental in Kennewick, WAPeople with large gaps from missing teeth can often benefit greatly from dental implants. A dentist may suggest implants for patients who seem to struggle with personal appearance, speaking, or chewing and eating. While there are other avenues to pursue for replacing missing teeth, this type of dental procedure can work well for patients who do not want regular dentures or have had little luck with other artificial replacements, such as bridges.

Reasons to undergo surgery

Dental implants can do more for a patient than recreate a beautiful smile. Impacts have been shown psychologically and physically in those who receive these subtle dental appliances. Knowing how an implant can positively affect someone’s everyday living can encourage patients to discuss implant options with a dentist. Here are the top reasons patients invest in the procedure.

Improved oral health

When teeth are lost, the jawbone can steadily deteriorate over time without the extra support provided by teeth roots. Patients may struggle with daily functions, such as chewing and biting, which can impact essential dietary needs. By filling in those gaps, the jawbone can grow healthier and patients can eat properly.

Improved smile

Many people with missing teeth take care to smile with closed lips. They may also have difficulty speaking, which can lead to embarrassment and social shyness. Artificial teeth are matched to blend in smoothly with natural teeth, allowing patients to smile and speak without hindrances.

Lasting durability

Most denture and bridge dental options need to be replaced within the decade — sometimes sooner — requiring patients to visit the dentist more frequently. Dental implants are built to last a lifetime and seldom need replacing. So long as patients maintain good oral hygiene habits, even removable options have great durability and lifespans.

The surgery process

An implant comes in three parts. The first is a metal post that is screwed into a person’s jawbone below the gumline. A middle piece called an abutment is attached to the post just on top of the gums. The third and final piece is the crown that acts as an artificial tooth. From start to finish, the procedure of securing these three parts can take months due to necessary healing times in between surgery and placement appointments. Some steps in the process can be skipped or combined in one visit depending on the individual’s choice of implant.

Implant options

The procedure may take more time depending on the implant a patient receives. There are three main types:

  • Single implant: A patient receives one implant to replace a single missing tooth
  • Implant-supported bridge: A dental bridge is secured by implants for patients missing two or more consecutive teeth in a row
  • Implant-supported dentures: A full denture is attached to several implants when most teeth are missing

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Replacing Missing Teeth in Kennewick, WA

Conclusion

Discussing these options and the procedures involved with each can help patients decide on whether receiving dental implants is the right choice. Never hesitate to bring up issues of missing teeth with a dentist.

Request an appointment or call Gledhill Dental at 509-800-8410 for an appointment in our Kennewick office.

Related Posts

Am I A Candidate For Dental Implants?

Dental implants can prevent problems resulting from tooth loss. Some people need these restorations because they do not want to use unstable, removable tooth replacements. Others want to have a natural look. Finding out your eligibility for this treatment is crucial in achieving your dental health goals. If you want to know if you are…

Can Dental Implants Replace Front Teeth?

Dental implants have emerged as the standard for replacing missing teeth in general dentistry. These artificial teeth roots can last a lifetime once placed in the jaw. About 5 million new implants are placed each year.Implants can be used to restore front teeth and any other type of teeth. Implants installed in the front of…

4 Things To Know About Dental Implants

If someone is missing teeth, one of the options for replacing them is dental implants. According to the CDC, one in five adults over 65 have severe tooth loss. Tooth loss may occur due to untreated cavities, gingivitis, and oral trauma. There are numerous benefits to getting implants, although it is not necessarily an option…

Related Posts

Oral Hygiene Basics: Bad Habits To Avoid

Oral Hygiene Basics: Bad Habits To Avoid

Having a firm understanding of oral hygiene basics can prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and general oral discomfort. Human beings go through life developing a range of habits that impact oral health, some of which are good and some of which are bad. Avoiding these damaging behaviors promotes strong teeth and gums that can last…

Improve The Color Of Your Teeth With Teeth Whitening Treatments

Improve The Color Of Your Teeth With Teeth Whitening Treatments

Teeth whitening treatments can get you noticeably whiter teeth in less than an hour. They are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments and involve using compounds with bleaching properties like hydrogen carbamide or hydrogen peroxide to take off stains from the outer and inner layers of your teeth.There are numerous ways to go about…