Addressing tooth loss promptly is crucial. Without treatment, the gum tissues and underlying jawbone can become infected, and the jawbone itself may begin to atrophy—all while the remaining teeth can shift out of alignment!
Fortunately, dental implants offer an incredibly durable, cutting-edge solution with stability and a completely natural feel. Let's explore these modern dental marvels, what they are, how they work, and what makes them so effective.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants are a highly effective long-term solution for tooth loss. The implants themselves are small titanium pegs that are surgically implanted into the jawbone at the site of tooth loss to function as dental roots. Once the implant placement procedure is completed, the implant fuses with the jawbone over several months through osseointegration to create a replacement tooth root and an anchoring point for a dental crown.
The type of dental implant required varies based on individual needs. The most common type is endosteal (implanted directly in the jawbone), but other varieties, like subperiosteal (resting on the jawbone surface) and zygomatic (anchored in cheekbone), are available for individuals lacking sufficient bone height or density for traditional implants.
What sets dental implants apart from other options is their incredible longevity (typically two decades or more!) and their ability to address tooth loss at the root and above the gumline.
The Myriad Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer numerous benefits that make them the superior tooth replacement solution:
- Bolstering the jawbone — Dental implants provide vital stimulation to the jawbone, preventing bone density loss that often accompanies tooth loss.
- Supporting remaining teeth — Implants prevent teeth around the site of tooth loss from overcrowding or shifting out of alignment.
- Natural feel and function — When anchored in the jaw, implants feel and function like natural roots, allowing a person to bite, chew, speak, and smile confidently.
- Durability — With proper at-home care and regular dental checkups, implants can last multiple decades (if not a lifetime!) without requiring retreatment.
Precisely Placing Dental Implants in Hermitage, PA
If you're in Hermitage and seeking a friendly, experienced, and knowledgeable dental team to guide you through the dental implant process, from consultation to precise placement to aftercare, contact Dr. Deanna Thomas and the outstanding Thomas Family Dentistry team to schedule a consultation!