Many people may lose one or more teeth for one reason or another. If you have missing teeth, you might realize that you struggle with oral functions and feel self-conscious about gaps in your smile. But you could also face a greater risk of more oral health problems without tooth replacement from your dentist.
Dental implants can provide the most comprehensive restoration of your smile in the wake of tooth loss. Whether you lose one, several, or an entire arch of teeth, your dentist can offer the right implant option for your unique needs. Read on to learn details about three types of dental implants that your dentist might recommend to restore your smile after tooth loss.
Single Dental Implant
If you need to replace one missing tooth, your dentist might offer you a single dental implant. The implant relies on a titanium post anchor to support the prosthetic tooth made from a ceramic crown. The dentist will insert the anchor into the jaw. As you heal, it fuses with the bone there to establish a reliable foundation for this tooth replacement.
A dentist will make the prosthetic tooth on a custom basis for each patient. This way, you can look forward to a beautiful finish that suits the unique shape, size, and color of your smile. Plus, ceramic will resist staining so that you can enjoy this gorgeous smile enhancement for longer.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridge
An implant-supported dental bridge can be a good option for patients who want to replace three or more consecutive missing teeth. This fixture is similar to the single implant except that it uses two anchors to support the bridge prosthetic.
While dentures can also restore aesthetics and function to your smile, implants offer more reliable tooth replacement. With the jawbone fusion process, you do not have to worry about a device slipping out of place at an inopportune moment.
You can eat and speak without stress. The dental implant will last for about twenty years. And its strong construction means you can perform oral functions without harming the fixture in most cases.
All-on-Four Dental Implant
As its name suggests, the All-on-Four dental implant uses four anchors to support a full set of prosthetic teeth. You can replace an entire arch of missing teeth on the top or bottom of the mouth or both if needed with this type of implant.
Unlike removable dentures, the implant can replace missing teeth below the gumline, not just above. This can prevent further deterioration of your dental structure. Without the roots of the teeth, your jawbone may start to degenerate. Thorough tooth replacement with implants can prevent this concern and keep your teeth, gums, and jawbone healthy.
If you already lost jawbone structure, the fusion of the implanted anchor might not occur properly. Your dentist can ensure you are a good candidate for implants when you schedule a dental consultation. They will check your jaw health with x-ray imaging before starting this treatment.