
Tooth loss presents a host of problems, from aesthetic considerations to eating difficulties and even jawbone deterioration. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers a number of reliable tooth replacement solutions. Among them, dental implants stand out for their unmatched stability and longevity. They are the only tooth replacement option that rebuilds lost teeth from the roots up. This page further explains what dental implants are and how they may be able to help you reclaim a complete, healthy smile.
Dental implants are small cylinders made out of a titanium alloy that serve as prosthetic tooth roots. They get inserted beneath the gumline in a minimally invasive surgery, after which they form a strong bond with the surrounding tissue. Once that bond has solidified, we design a custom restoration — such as a crown, bridge, or denture — to attach to the tops of the dental implants and replace the visible portion of the lost teeth.
Some of the most outstanding benefits of dental implants include:
Dental implants are a versatile treatment that is suitable for most patients who have suffered a degree of tooth loss. They may be appropriate for you whether you are missing one tooth, several teeth (either in a row or throughout your mouth), or even all of your teeth.
To replace a single tooth, one dental implant gets inserted beneath the gumline. After it fuses with the surrounding bone, we design a single crown to attach to the top of the implant. An implant is superior to a traditional bridge because it does not rely on nearby natural teeth for support.
If your missing teeth are all adjacent to one another, we may recommend that you receive an implant-supported bridge. One implant goes at each end of the empty space. Each implant supports a crown, and the crowns support 1 – 3 artificial teeth between them.
For patients who are missing all of their teeth, we typically recommend an implant-supported denture, which may be supported by as few as 4 – 6 dental implants. Such a denture may be permanently attached to the implants, or it may “snap” onto and off of the implants via small attachments.
The cost of dental implants varies from patient to patient and depends on the number of implants needed, the extent of any preparatory treatment, and other factors. During your consultation, we will be able to provide you with a personalized cost estimate and help you explore your payment options. Although dental implants tend to have a higher upfront cost than non-implant alternatives, they are worth the price because of the many benefits they offer.