The way in which we address missing teeth has evolved greatly in recent decades. Today, many people replace lost teeth with dental implants, cylinders of titanium that are placed directly into healthy jawbone. Implants may replace solitary teeth, saving the need for bridgework, or they may be used in conjunction with a denture appliance for ultimate stability.
There are several advantages to this tooth replacement treatment, making it appealing in a number of situations. Implants are prosthetics anchored within the jawbone. There is nothing more stable other than the natural tooth structure and root. When a tooth is lost, standard therapies address the structure that was lost above the gums. To replace a single tooth, a dental bridge is fitted to two natural teeth, with an artificial tooth positioned in between. This artificial tooth sits on top of the gums. Likewise, removable denture appliances are crafted to form to existing gum and bone structure, relying on suction and adhesives for stability.
Dr. Stern works with reputable implant specialists in the area of Willoughby Hills to restore smiles to their most natural state following the loss of teeth. Our colleagues will discuss the available options, and help you determine if titanium or zirconium implants are most suitable to your needs. Implants have been extensively researched, with original patients reporting ongoing success after more than forty years. The dental implant process begins with the insertion of the implant or implants as recommended by your oral surgeon, collaborating with Dr. Stern. After placement, bone tissue fuses around the implant post. Within a few months, this structure will be healed and you return to our office for the placement of a dental crown or denture appliance. In some cases, temporary restorations are placed for an attractive appearance as well as restored chewing function.
One of the greatest benefits of dental implants over other tooth-replacement procedures is that we are able to address the needs of the jawbone. Without an active root system, bone tissue breaks down over time. This is why many people who have worn conventional, poorly fitting dentures begin to look older than they are. When bone tissue resorbs into the body, facial structure loses support and the lips and cheeks look sunken. Because implants provide consistent stimulation to bone tissue, this supportive structure is preserved.
If you are investigating your options for tooth replacement, contact Smile Brighter Willoughby Hills for your consultation with Dr. Stern.
What are Dental Implants? Explained by Dr. Stern
Dental implant is a great way to replace a missing tooth. Are you someone in the Willoughby Hills, OH area looking for a dentist to get a missing tooth fixed? Then Dr. Stern at Smile Brighter Willoughby Hills is the dentist you should visit.
What are dental implants?
Dental Implants are surgically graded titanium that is shaped like roots of teeth, and they are surgically placed into the jaw by a dentist or surgeon to replace teeth that have been lost. These are called root-form implants.
How does the procedure work?
If a patient loses a single tooth and wants it replaced, a single root-form implant can be placed. After it’s fused to the jawbone, which takes a few months, a crown to replace the missing tooth can be attached to the implant via a titanium post that is attached to the root-form implant.
When that’s done, the implant visually and functionally is pretty much improved and savable from the actual adjacent natural teeth. They integrate into the jaw very nicely.
How can implants be used for dentures?
Implants can also be used in a situation where somebody has lost all of their natural teeth in the lower or upper jaws and has difficulty wearing a denture. Implants can have attachments on them where the dentures would snap on to the implants.