Tooth loss affects millions of American adults, but it can present in many ways. Whether you have lost one, several, or an entire arch of teeth, you could be at risk of further oral health issues. Your dentist can develop a custom tooth replacement treatment to enhance and preserve your smile after tooth loss.
Your dentist can adjust their treatment to suit your unique smile by employing different kinds of dental implants. These fixtures will support prosthetic teeth, no matter how many tooth replacements you need. Read on to learn about three types of dental implant appliances that your dentist might use to replace your missing teeth.
Dental Implant Options
Single Dental Implant
If you seek a replacement for one missing tooth, your dentist might suggest a single dental implant. You should note that you can receive more than one of these types of implants if needed.
The implant features a titanium post that serves as an anchor for the device. A dentist surgically places it into the jaw where it will fuse to the bone there for strong support.
Once this heals after a few months, your dentist can attach a crown to an abutment above the gumline to give you a gorgeous and natural-looking finish. Patients like that this treatment can fill gaps in a smile following tooth loss.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridge
Patients who want to replace three or more teeth in a row may benefit from an implant-supported dental bridge. This device uses two implanted anchors: one for each end of the bridge prosthetic.
With a dental implant like this in place, you can see improvement in your oral functions after tooth loss. You can chew and speak as you normally would.
This permanent placement of the device ensures it will not slip out of place at an inopportune moment as a removable option might. With proper care, a dental implant can keep restoring your smile for twenty or more years. Many patients enjoy that they will not have to worry about replacing their devices, unlike dentures that need new fixtures every five years or so.
All-on-Four Dental Implant
An All-on-Four dental implant can replace an entire arch of missing teeth for a patient. They can receive this on the top or bottom arch of the mouth or both if needed. The dentist employs four anchors that will support the full arch of prosthetic teeth.
Unlike removable dentures, dental implants will prevent jawbone deterioration and other issues stemming from tooth loss. This is because they replace the missing tooth roots below the gumline that other treatments cannot reach.
Dentists will often recommend implant dentistry to replace missing teeth because of their versatility and extensive restorative benefits. However, not all patients can qualify for this treatment. Schedule a consult with your dentist to learn more about your eligibility for long-lasting tooth replacement using dental implants. Your existing dental structure, budget, and medical history can all affect the results of this dental treatment.