The Difference A Dental Implant Makes

Losing teeth can mean poor oral health, major complications, and even impacts on the appearance of the smile and facial structure. Instead of traditional bridges and dentures, we can offer an implant-secured option that addresses tooth loss. What benefits will dental implants offer, and what’s the difference between them and other tooth replacement options?

A New Tooth Root

The major difference is how they’re held in place. A bridge needs dental crowns, which means removing healthy structure from surrounding teeth. A full denture requires suction, and a partial uses metal clasps. But with dental implants, we actually perform oral surgery to insert the biocompatible titanium implant into the jawbone. Over a period of three to four months, the placement area will heal and osseointegration will take place, bonding the jawbone and the dental implant together. The implant then acts as a new tooth root, one that can last for decades, possibly even a lifetime. In comparison, a bridge will last about 10 to 15 years, and a removable denture between 5 and 10.

A Lifelike Replacement Option

Now, what about the visible part of your new tooth, the portion everyone sees when you smile? If you’ve lost a single tooth, then we will add an abutment once the placement area heals and attach a custom-made dental crown. The crown will be strong and secure, able to absorb bite forces and allow you to eat your favorite foods again. The crown can also be shaded to match the color and translucence of surrounding teeth. If you have multiple dental implants, then we may attach a custom-made bridge or denture, one that is fixed in place and lasts much longer than traditional options.

A Tooth That Lasts for Years

To ensure your new tooth lasts for many years to come, you should brush it twice a day along with the rest of your smile, and floss around it as well. Issues such as gum disease could threaten your new tooth and increase the risk of failure. But with routine care, including regular office visits for checkups and cleanings, we can monitor your smile and ensure you continue to enjoy optimal oral health. If you have any questions about this process, contact our team today. We can offer a consultation to examine your smile and see if implant dentistry is the right choice for addressing your tooth loss. Contact our team today to learn more!

Ready to Address Your Missing Teeth?

Our team wants to offer a durable and long-lasting solution to minor and severe tooth loss. For more information on implant dentistry, schedule a consultation by calling Modern Smile in North Hollywood, CA, today at 818-763-9353. We also proudly serve patients who live in Burbank, Toluca Lake, and all surrounding communities.