Following tooth loss, treating the sites of missing teeth must be one of the first orders of business. Without proper treatment, the remaining teeth can shift out of alignment, the surrounding gum tissue can become infected, and the underlying jawbone can atrophy (and also become infected).
Thankfully, we have dental implants at our disposal! Thanks to these durable, cutting-edge restorative marvels, tooth loss sufferers can regain the stability of their bites and the aesthetic appeal of their smiles, with a natural feel rivaled only by natural tooth roots!
What Are Dental Implants and How Do They Work?
Dental implants are the most effective and longest-lasting restorative solution for tooth loss.
A dental implant is a small titanium peg that a dentist or oral surgeon places into the void (or "socket") in a patient's jawbone left by a missing tooth. Following implantation, the implant fuses permanently with the underlying jawbone over a few weeks in a process known as "osseointegration." Once osseointegration is complete, the implant, now wholly secured in place, feels and functions like a natural tooth root and can serve as an anchoring point for a long-term restoration like a dental crown.
The two factors that set dental implants apart from other tooth replacement solutions:
- They address tooth loss at the root.
- With proper placement and care, dental implants typically have a lifespan of two decades or more.
Dental Implants' Biggest Benefits
Among the myriad benefits that distinguish dental implants from other tooth loss solutions, the most significant include:
- Jawbone stimulation. Implants offer stimulation to the jawbone, which is crucial to preventing bone density loss that can follow tooth loss.
- Support for remaining teeth. Implants help prevent teeth surrounding the site of tooth loss from shifting.
- Natural feel and function. Dental implants feel like natural tooth roots, boosting daily quality of life by providing total confidence when biting, chewing, or speaking.
- Longevity. With proper care and robust oral hygiene practices, a dental implant should not require re-treatment for several years – possibly even last a lifetime!
Precisely Placed Dental Implants and Top-Notch Cosmetic Dentistry in Aurora, CO
If you're in Aurora and looking for an experienced and knowledgeable dental team to guide you through the dental implant process and provide the cosmetic care you need to restore your smile and bite to their best, contact me, Dr. John Chen, and the friendly and help team at Uptown Comprehensive Dentistry & Prosthodontics!