Choose Dental Implants to Replace Missing Teeth

Dental implants are growing in popularity as they provide a permanent, non-removable, and more natural-like restoration for missing teeth. However, many are still unfamiliar with exactly how dental implants work, and this review discusses the dental implants process to replace missing teeth.

Dental implants for replacing multiple missing teeth

Dental implants are used to replace a single missing tooth (implant-supported crown), a section of missing teeth (implant-supported bridge), or an entire row of missing teeth (full arch replacement). The following is a more in-depth look at how dental implants are used to replace multiple teeth.

How dental implants can replace multiple missing teeth

Dental implants are a form of tooth replacement. There are three components to dental implant restoration, which are the implant itself, the abutment for each implant, and the restoration. When replacing multiple missing teeth, the dentist uses either a dental bridge (partial denture) or a complete denture that is permanently fixed into place and is non-removable. Depending on the number of teeth that are being replaced, the dentist can use from two to five dental implants.

Dental implants vs. removable dentures

Both dental implants and removable dentures are effective ways to replace multiple missing teeth, and both options look the same as natural teeth. However, dental implants are permanently fixed inside the jaw, whereas removable dentures are supported by the gums. One subsequent benefit of dental implants is that they offer long-term support, and they can last for more than twenty years in many cases. In addition, dental implants preserve the density inside of the jawbone, which removable dentures do to the same extent.

The dental implants process for replacing missing teeth

Dental implants require a longer treatment process. A bone graft procedure may be necessary before the placement of dental implants if the patient has experienced bone loss in the jaw. The placement of the dental implants is also considered a surgical procedure, and it can take several months for the implants to osseointegrate with the jawbone after placement. The last step after osseointegration is the attachment of the restoration, which is either a bridge or complete denture for multiple missing teeth replacement.

How long the dental implants process takes

The dental implant process can take up to a year or slightly more if a bone graft procedure is necessary. Without a bone graft procedure, patients can expect the restoration process to take between five and eight months, although treatment times vary.

What to expect after dental implants treatment

The good news is it is easy to care for your new smile after the process is complete, and you are free to eat the way you desire (within reason) without damaging your new restoration and new and improved smile.

Are you ready to begin the dental implants process?

You can start the dental implants process by calling our friendly dental team and scheduling a time to visit that is convenient for you. During your initial consultation, our dentist can answer your questions and help you put together a dental implants treatment plan.

Request an appointment here: https://smilesdental.com or call Smiles Dental Care at (650) 563-1180 for an appointment in our Mountain View office.

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