Ages ago, people had to live with a missing tooth. But thanks to modern dentistry, people with tooth loss no longer have to endure this. Before, the ultimate solution to missing teeth are partial or full dentures. But soon enough they realized that it also brings about certain dental risks. Dentures can be a good place for food and bacteria to accumulate. This can cause sore gums, gum disease or cavities in the teeth. Plus it can slip any moment and cause embarassment.
Today, dental implants have become the popular choice in replacing missing teeth. The idea of modern dental implants began decades ago but it continues to improve and develop resulting to longer lasting implants. Dental implants today are made of titanium – a metal that is strong and bonds well with the bone. They are inserted to the jawbone through surgery and is buried under the gum tissue. Healing period is usually three to six months. During this healing period, osseointegration happens. This is a process where the bone grows and bonds with the titanium implant. When the gums that cover the implant heal, an artificial dental crown is placed on top of it to look like beatiful, natural-looking teeth.
Dental implants can be done to replace a single missing tooth, to support a dental bridge or serve as an anchor to hold a full denture in place. If you or someone you know is a candidate for dental implants, call your dental office to ask for more information about it.
