Tired of dentures that slip? A dental implant is an artificial tooth root (typically made of titanium) we place in your jaw to anchor a crown. Dental implants replace missing teeth so you can smile with confidence after tooth loss. A tooth implant can also improve your oral health so you can avoid further tooth loss, jawbone deterioration, gum disease, and cavities. A dental implant dentist will be able to recognize the signs you need permanent tooth replacement.
To schedule your consultation with a dental implant dentist, call (616) 458-7267 today.
Why You May Need Dental Implants
You’re considering a Dental Bridge
Like the name suggests, a dental bridge “bridges” the gap left by a missing tooth. A bridge is comprised of an artificial tooth anchored by crowns on healthy adjacent teeth. In order to place a dental bridge, your dentist would have to remove healthy enamel from teeth on both sides of the gap. Once enamel is removed, it can never be replaced. We may recommend dental implants over bridges because they let you keep as much natural tooth structure as possible.
A tooth implant is sturdier than a bridge because it’s anchored to your jaw. This added stability helps you smile, talk, and eat with confidence.Dental implants are also long-lasting, which means you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful healthy smile for years to come.
You Wear Dentures
Dentures sit on top of the gums and don’t prevent jawbone deterioration. A tooth implant, on the other hand, will exert pressure your jawbone needs to stay healthy. If you don’t get a tooth implant, you will eventually lose jawbone tissue and experience facial collapse. Once the jawbone deteriorates, it’ll become harder to refit dentures so you can chew without pain.
Unlike dentures, dental implants never slip. This means that you can eat, talk, and smile like you did before tooth loss. While denture teeth have to be submerged in water or denture cleanser when they aren’t in your mouth, implants can be cared for like natural teeth.
You Lost One or More Teeth
After extraction, your dentist may recommend a tooth implant to help you maintain good oral health. Otherwise, your jaw will start to deteriorate and eventually alter the shape of your face. The best time to get a tooth implant is immediately after extraction.
Your teeth are held in place by roots and adjacent teeth. This means that when you lose a tooth, nearby teeth are likely to tilt toward the open space, loosen, and eventually fall out. Fortunately, dental implants support nearby teeth so you can continue smiling with confidence.
Dental implants help you avoid:
- Bone loss in jaw
- Facial collapse
- Further tooth loss
- Ill-fitting dentures
- Feeling self-conscious about your smile
Dr. Nick Ritzema DDS and Dr. Alexandra Maring DDS can help you explore your tooth replacement options (including dental implants) during your next appointment. To schedule a consultation with one of our dental implant dentists in Grand Rapids MI, call Complete Health Dentistry at (616) 458-7267.