Crowns and conventional bridges or dentures may not be your only options when replacing missing teeth. Dental implants offer a smile that looks and feels very natural. Surgically placed below the gums over a series of appointments, implants fuse to the jawbone and serve as a base for individual replacement teeth, bridges or a denture.
Implants offer stability because they fuse to your bone. Integration of the implants into your jaw also helps your replacement teeth feel more natural and some people also find the secure fit more comfortable than conventional substitutes.
Candidates for dental implants need to have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant. A thorough evaluation by your dentist will help determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants.
Tooth Implants
When should I consider getting a tooth implant?
You should consider tooth implants if you are missing teeth.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are the most realistic tooth replacements available. Implants begin with a surgically placed post that is securely anchored into the jawbone. The bone surrounding the anchor will heal in approximately six months. With a completely solid and stable anchor point, an artificial tooth is then installed. The end result is a new artificial tooth that is virtually indistinguishable from a natural tooth, both from an aesthetic and functional standpoint. In cases where several teeth are missing, dental implants can also act as the teeth to which bridges are fixed, again perfectly mimicking the function of healthy, natural teeth.
What are the alternatives to dental implants?
A bridge or partial dentures may be considered if the financial burden of dental implants is too great.
Implant Supported Dentures
When should I get implant dentures?
You should consider getting implant dentures if you have loose or poorly fit dentures. Loose dentures can make eating difficult and they can also cause painful sore spots on the gums as they slide around while chewing.
What is an implant denture?
An implant denture may be the answer. Usually two to four implants are surgically placed in the bone and become anchored as the bone heals and secures itself to the implant. This healing process takes about six months after which the dentist can begin constructing an implant denture. An implant denture is a removable denture with attachments on the underside that clip onto a bar connected to the implants. The attachments and bar hold the denture in place and keep it from moving when chewing and speaking. Implant dentures can be classified into two groups: Implant Retained Dentures and Implant Supported Dentures. Implant Retained Dentures are held in place by the attachments, but are mainly supported by the bone and gum tissue as is a conventional denture. Implant Supported Dentures are for patients who do not have sufficient bone and supporting gum tissue. This denture is mainly supported by the bar attached to the implants.
What are the alternatives to implant dentures?
New dentures may be considered if the financial burden of dental implants is too great.
Full Mouth Restoration
A full mouth restoration (also known as a full mouth rehabilitation or reconstruction) is a comprehensive treatment plan designed to restore and enhance the function, health, and appearance of your entire mouth. This procedure combines a variety of dental treatments to address multiple dental issues, including missing teeth, broken teeth, severe decay, bite problems, and more. The goal is to create a healthy, fully functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile.
Common Procedures in a Full Mouth Restoration:
- Dental Implants: Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed in the jawbone to replace missing teeth. They act as artificial roots that support crowns, bridges, or dentures, providing a stable, long-term solution for tooth loss.
- Crowns and Bridges: Crowns (caps) are placed over damaged or decayed teeth to restore their strength and appearance. Bridges are used to replace missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent natural teeth or implants. These are often essential in a full mouth restoration to restore both form and function.
- Veneers: Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite material placed over the front surface of the teeth to correct aesthetic issues such as chips, cracks, discoloration, or gaps.
- Inlays and Onlays: Inlays and onlays are custom-made fillings used to repair moderate decay or damage. Unlike traditional fillings, they fit snugly into the tooth and provide a more durable and aesthetic solution.
- Orthodontics (Braces or Invisalign): Misaligned or crooked teeth can often be addressed with orthodontics. Traditional braces or Invisalign clear aligners can be used to straighten teeth, improve bite, and enhance the overall alignment of the mouth.
- Root Canals: A root canal may be necessary when the pulp (nerve) of a tooth becomes infected or damaged. This procedure removes the infected tissue, cleans the tooth, and restores it with a crown, preserving the tooth and preventing further damage.
- Gum Grafting or Treatment: If gum recession or periodontal disease is present, gum treatments or grafting may be required. These procedures help restore gum health and improve the overall aesthetic appearance of the gums.
- TMJ Treatment: If a patient suffers from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, treatments such as mouthguards, physical therapy, or even surgery can be part of the restoration process to relieve pain and improve function.
- Teeth Whitening: Professional teeth whitening can enhance the overall appearance of your smile by removing stains and discoloration, especially after restorative procedures like crowns, veneers, or fillings.
If you're interested in a full mouth restoration, consult with a dental professional to discuss your options and start your journey toward a healthier, more confident smile.