Solution For Geriatric Tooth Loss Are Dental Implants Right for You?

By Thu-Nga Ortega, DDS

Dental Cosmetix

. http://www.dentalcosmetix.com/

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Solution For Geriatric Tooth Loss Are Dental Implants Right for You?

Tooth loss can have a far-reaching effect on your dental health and personal appearance. When you lose one or more teeth, your remaining teeth can drift out of position. This can lead to a change in the bite, the loss of additional teeth, decay and gum disease.

With today’s technology, you can now put back a tooth that is lost with a dental implant. Dental implants can be an effective method to replace one tooth or several teeth. Each implant consists of an artificial root that is inserted into the area of the missing tooth or teeth, and natural teeth replacement options can be fabricated to fit over the implant(s). Implants can also support a bridge, replace a partial denture or secure a fixed denture. Dental implants can be placed on the same day of tooth extraction and you can have a new tooth placed on the implant within a few months.

Dental Implant Procedure

Several steps are usually necessary to place an implant. Depending on the type of implant, the steps may vary. The placement of a single-tooth endosteal implant is illustrated below:

In the first procedure under anesthesia an artificial root or implant, is placed into the area of the missing tooth. Bone growth around the implant can take about three to six months. When your gums and jawbone have healed, a natural looking tooth can be fabricated to attach, or be cemented to the implants. Fitting your new tooth can take as little as two appointments.

Brush and floss your implant twice daily, just like your natural teeth. Be sure to brush the front and back of the implant and floss around the crown. Avoid chewing on hard objects or extremely sticky food. Proper dental care will help keep your implants and your mouth healthy.