As soon as you lose a tooth, you should start exploring your tooth replacement options. Because of their relatively low cost, many people choose partial bridges or full dentures for missing teeth. However, for most people, dental implants are a superior alternative. Unlike traditional dentures, which can be difficult to clean and prone to embarrassing slippage, dental implants look and function just like your natural teeth—eliminating the need for explanations or worry. In addition to their looks, dental implants are independently anchored into your jawbone to offer an incredibly strong grip that also works to preserve your jaw tissue and neighboring teeth.
Dental implants are a tried and true method of teeth replacement, supported by years of independent research, modern materials, and Dr. Weyneth's vast experience. New immediate load dental implants can even be placed in a single day, making it possible to replace teeth as soon as they go missing.
Dental implants offer a huge range of significant benefits, including:
Dental implants imitate the function of natural teeth in a way that other tooth replacement options can’t match. They offer patients the opportunity to eat and speak naturally, without having to worry about the artificial tooth getting knocked loose or interfering with normal chewing.
Unlike dentures, which are made to look like they continue into the jaw tissue but actually don’t, dental implants are actually anchored in your natural bone, providing the area with the stimulation the bone needs to stay strong, healthy, and supportive. Maintaining healthy bone mass is important not only for the placement of any additional implants in the future, but to maintain the natural shape of your face.
Partial bridges rely on support from neighboring teeth, which can strain them and ultimately lead to those teeth loosening or falling out early. When teeth go missing, the neighboring teeth tend to spread to fill the gap, throwing off the aesthetics of your entire smile. However, because dental implants are independently supported, they prevent the loss of additional teeth.
Traditional dentures typically have to be replaced every 3-5 years, representing a significant expense to people with missing teeth. However, dental implants can last a lifetime with the right care, offering a permanent, cost-effective solution.
Your dental implant journey begins with a normal oral examination. Dr. Weyneth will evaluate the overall health of your teeth, gums, and jaw tissue to see if dental implant placement is right for you. If your jaw tissue is healthy and strong, the doctors will talk with you about the projected timeline of your dental implant placement. Because each patient’s mouth is different, the dental implant placement process can take anywhere from a single appointment to several months.
After you are determined to be a good candidate for dental implants, a small titanium post will be placed in your jawbone that will hold the crown that makes up the visible portion of your implant. Next, a small connector, called an abutment is screwed to the top. After a mold is made of your gum tissue with the post and abutment, a dental crown will be custom-made for the area. With the help of sedation dentistry, the entire dental implant process is virtually pain free, and patients can enjoy a beautifully restored smile.
For more information about dental implants, contact Sherman Oaks Dental today.