There are a few different options for restoring missing teeth, but dental implants are the only one that replaces the root. This makes dental implants the best solution we have for replacing teeth because they prevent and even reverse the loss of bone density in the jaw. When the jaw bone becomes deteriorated, it can impact the strength of your bite, your ability to eat certain foods, and even your appearance as your facial structures change. It is important to see your restorative dentist first before getting the implant to ensure the crown, bridge or denture is able to properly fit your bite.
At Blossom Dentistry, we offer the following types of dental implant solutions:
Single Tooth Dental Implants Crowns
The term “dental implant” refers only to the small titanium post that is implanted into the jaw. For a single tooth restoration, an abutment is attached to the dental implant, and then the abutment is used to anchor a crown that replaces the visible portion of the missing tooth. The crown is a perfect replica of the tooth you’re missing and this restoration option looks and functions exactly like a natural tooth.
Implant-Supported Bridges
If three or more adjacent teeth are missing, we can use implant-supported bridges to replace them. Unlike traditional bridges which are supported by crowns, these bridges are held in place by two dental implants which replace the outermost missing teeth.
Implant Supported Dentures
This type of denture is held in place by two or more dental implants, rather than an adhesive paste. Implant-supported dentures can be full or partial, and fixed or removable (sometimes called snap-on dentures). An advantage of implant-supported dentures is that they result in a stronger bite, as the dentures have a stable base and do not slip.
Full Arch With Only Four Implants
If a full upper or lower arch of teeth needs to be replaced, we can use this type of restoration, which involves four dental implants used as anchors to hold prosthetic teeth in place.
Dental implants have a high success rate and patients are overwhelmingly happy with the results, which appear natural and restore function to their teeth. With proper care, which includes good oral hygiene habits, regular oral exams, and thorough dental cleanings to remove damaging plaque and tartar, dental implants can last a lifetime.