Replacing missing teeth is essential to maintaining good oral health. But what’s the best method for tooth replacement? Dr. Joseph A. Catanzano III of Foxhall Smiles discusses why he recommends Washington DC dental implants as the ideal option to replace missing teeth.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are often considered the gold standard of tooth replacement options. This is because they’re the only method that replaces the tooth root, as well as the rest of the tooth. This can help with stability and a natural feeling and look that you may not get with other options.
A dental implant is comprised of three parts. First, a titanium post is what’s actually implanted in your jawbone. This is what replaces your tooth root. Next, a piece called an abutment is secured on top of the post. This connects the final restoration to the post. Last, the final restoration is usually a dental crown. However, dental implants can also be used to support dentures or dental bridges as well.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants Over Other Options?
As mentioned, one of the biggest benefits of dental implants is that they replace the tooth root. This makes them more stable than other types of tooth restoration options. Stability means there’s no need for you to worry about them falling out while talking or eating. You don’t have to have any dietary restrictions or changes to your oral care routine, because these act the most similar to normal teeth.
Another unique benefit of dental implants is that they deter from further bone loss, and actually spur bone regeneration. The jawbone has to fuse around the implant post, rooting it in place. This prevents you from having the sagging face look that comes with missing teeth. Having the implant post also means that your teeth won’t be at risk for shifting and moving around in your mouth.
Lastly, dental implants have a very high success rate. 90-95% of implants are successful and patients are happy with them. This is a serious reason for them to be recommended as the tooth replacement option of choice.
The Dental Implant Process
While dental implants are successful and carry many benefits, they do have an extensive process involved with it. First, Dr. Catanzano coordinates with a local specialist who will implant the titanium posts in your jawbone. They’re placed at precisely the right intervals to ensure maximum stability and success. Once this is done, it takes about three to six months for them to heal and completely fuse with your jawbone.
Once this healing process is over, the abutment can be attached. It may take a week or so for the soft tissues to heal before the final restoration can be placed. Usually, especially for a single missing tooth, a custom dental crown is used. Its shape and color are both matched to the rest of your smile, making the restoration look as natural as possible.
However, dental implants can be used to support other options too. All-On-Four dentures, for example, attach to four dental implants while replacing an entire arch of missing teeth. Unlike removable dentures, these stay in the mouth and don’t require finding adhesives. They can be cleaned with a normal oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing.
Implants can be used to support dental bridges as well. Bridges are used to replace a span of consecutive teeth. If natural teeth are used to support them, the bridges can cause wear and tear, making these teeth more susceptible to tooth decay. Using dental implants instead can prevent this problem from happening.
Getting Dental Implants in Washington DC
Do you think dental implants are the right choice to replace your missing teeth? Call us today or schedule an appointment online to get started.