It’s very common to see children with missing teeth, but missing teeth as an adult isn’t quite the same. Missing teeth can be uncomfortable, and it might make you feel self-conscious when talking, smiling, or eating. It also might cause oral health problems. Luckily, there is a dental implant procedure that can help replace your missing teeth!

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are implanted into the jaw to hold replacement teeth or bridges. Since they are fixed to the bone, the individual crowns and bridges placed on top don’t shift or slip in your mouth. Because of this security, implants feel more natural and comfortable than traditional dentures or bridges. They also are designed to blend in with your surrounding teeth.

In the case of a conventional bridge, the teeth on one or both sides of the affected tooth/teeth must be ground down to attach and support the bridge. Dental implants go right into the jawbone, right where the missing tooth roots were and thereby allow you to protect your other healthy teeth.

Wait, I thought you said dental implants replace missing teeth?

Almost, but not quite. Technically, dental implants only replace the missing tooth roots. They provide the strong base for the post, a small connector that will hold the replacement tooth, which is called a restoration or dental crown. The crown will be custom-made in size and color and it will fit in perfectly with your smile.

Who qualifies for dental implants?

To be a candidate for dental implants, you must have enough bone to support the implant. You must also have overall good oral health, especially in terms of your gums and jawbone.

Patients who smoke, drink alcohol heavily, or have diabetes have less success with dental implants since these conditions negatively affect oral health, which in turn has an impact on the healing process.

Continued dedication to oral health is also important in dental implant candidates, as dental implants require daily brushing, flossing, and regular visits to the dentist. (And of course your natural teeth need all this too!)

If you’re considering dental implants, make an appointment with Middletown Family Dental! Dr. Ward will go through the procedure in detail and also examine the location of your missing tooth/teeth to determine whether dental implants are the right solution for you and your smile.