When It Comes To Replacing Missing Teeth, Dental Implants Are The Ideal

Posted on May 16, 2016 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Modern dentistry provides excellent options to replace missing teeth. When replacing several teeth in one area, a standard method has been a crown and bridge combination. However, when considering all options along with the advantages and challenges of each, Dental Implants stand out as the ideal, for many reasons. They are the closest thing to the look, feel and function of natural teeth. Quite frankly, the only deterrent for most is the higher cost of implants.

When a bridge is used to replace missing teeth, it must be attached to neighboring teeth on both sides for support. This requires that the supporting teeth to be crowned for this reason alone. Remember, once a tooth is crowned (or ‘capped’), it will always require a crown. When a Dental Implant is placed, it does not rely on the support of adjacent teeth.

Without the presence of natural tooth roots in the jaw bone, the bone begins to decline in mass. This process is known as resorption. This can become more obvious when the area of gum tissue under (or above) the bridge diminishes in height. Eventually, a gap may be visible between the bottom of the bridge and the gums.

As the bone declines in mass, the teeth supporting the bridge are more susceptible to problems. On average, the next teeth to be lost are teeth adjacent to areas of missing teeth. This is one reason Dental Implants have such an edge. They actually recreate the presence of tooth roots, halting the bone resorption process. And, since implants are held by the jaw, just as natural tooth roots, they restore dependable biting and stable chewing.

For those who are missing two or more teeth, one Dental Implant can often support a ‘bridge’ of teeth. Because the cost of implant treatment depends greatly on the number of implants placed, this helps to keep expenses more manageable for most.

Dental Implants are made from a material that bonds successfully with your jaw bone. Properly chosen, placed and maintained, an implant can last a lifetime. Dental Implants will never need root canals, do not decay and do not compromise the well-being of adjacent natural teeth. And, because implants become a part of you, they are your ‘own teeth’ once again! They’re like a “do over” for tooth loss!

Although the initial costs are higher than many options for tooth replacement, the advantages provide a wise investment when compared with other tooth replacement options. If you are considering replacing teeth, call 828-254-9440 for a consultation.