Some people choose dental implants as an option for replacing missing teeth. They can be designed to match the size and color of a person’s natural teeth. If you are considering dental implants, here’s what you need to know.

Dental implants purpose and construction.

The implant uses metal posts or framework that is fused to the jawbone, under the gums. These implants will require minor surgery since it is implanted in the bone, but this ensures that the teeth will be secure and once the replacement teeth are mounted they act just as the person’s natural teeth.

How dental implants work.

Dental implants are more stable than dentures and bridges. Individual crowns can be mounted to them, but bridges and even dentures can be attached as well and are far more stable and secure. Some people have difficulty with conventional dentures and bridges due to sore spots, slipping, poor ridges, and discomfort. It can hinder their ability to speak and eat. They may become self-conscious and withdraw from social activities. Because dental implants offer more support, so there is no slipping or difficulties with speaking or eating, the patient can confidently interact socially.

Types of dental implants.

There are two types of dental implants that the American Dental Association deems safe:

Endosteal implants – Individual implants are surgically implanted in the jawbone. When the gum tissue around the area has healed, the patient must undergo a second surgery that connects a post to the implant. Then the bridge, denture, artificial tooth is attached to the post. Several individual teeth may also be attached to the posts.

Subperiosteal implants – A metal frame is attached to the jawbone, below the gums. As the gums heal, the stability of the framework increases because it becomes fixed to the bone. The frame has posts that protrude through the gums, providing a mounting for artificial teeth.

Do you have missing teeth? Talk to your dentist to see if you are a candidate for dental implants. Contact Woodlane Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to schedule an appointment for a consultation and find out if dental implants are right for you.