Did you know that by age 50, Americans have lost an average of 12 permanent teeth? Whether it’s through tooth decay or breakage, it’s not uncommon or shameful to have a missing tooth! You’re not alone.
Having a missing tooth might feel embarrassing, but it also comes with another large problem: bone loss. This is why people seek out dental procedures to replace their teeth.
We’re here to talk about various types of dental implants that might be perfect for your situation. Read on before you talk to your local dentist about treatment options.
Single-Tooth Implant
Most people who visit the dentist for an implant online need a single implant or several implants scattered throughout the mouth instead of all in one place.
Putting in single implants is a simple process. Once the problematic tooth is extracted (if necessary), the dentist will place a post in the patient’s gums. After several months of healing, the dentist will place a single custom crown over the post.
The crown will mimic the patient’s natural teeth so it blends right in.
This is a good option for anyone who is only missing a few teeth and those teeth are far apart. It’s a costly solution for anyone who’s missing many teeth, though.
Implant-Supported Bridge
For people who are missing multiple teeth all in a row, an implant-supported bridge is a viable option.
With single implants, each new “tooth” gets an anchor in the gums. While this might give the best results, it’s expensive and many people are unable to afford it. Instead, an implant-supported bridge might be a better solution.
With this bridge, anchors only go beneath the teeth on the ends of the affected area. If there are three teeth missing in a row, the first and third teeth will get the anchors and the middle one will not.
Unfortunately, because the anchors protect the bone mass in your jaw, this option isn’t the healthiest option. It is better, however than leaving the space empty.
Implant Dentures
For people who are missing all (or almost all) of their teeth, getting implant overdentures is the best option.
Implant dentures are secure. You don’t have to remove them like you do normal dentures. Patients with implant dentures have natural-looking results.
To place these dentures, the dentist will add anchors to the patient’s arches. While the anchors are healing, the dentist will make realistic “teeth” to place over the patient’s gums.
There may still be bone loss in the back of the patient’s mouth due to the lack of anchors, but this is a great option for older adults or anyone who doesn’t want to have to replace their dentures. It’s expensive, but a good investment overall.
Which Types of Dental Implants Are Right for You?
If you want to replace missing teeth, one of these types of dental implants might be the solution. Talk to the best dentist in your local area to see if you’re a good candidate for dental implants as not everyone can get them according to this dentist in Fort Lauderdale. You can restore your superstar smile in just a few months.
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