Tooth Replacement Therapy
Tooth loss for any reason can lead to quite a few problems in your mouth. Missing teeth can affect your speech, limit your ability to chew, and can even cause bone loss over time. Dentures and bridges are common tooth replacement methods, but dental implants are by far the best option for tooth restoration.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is an option to replace a missing tooth. Dental implants are made of titanium and inserted deep into the gums and fused to the jawbone by a process called osseointegration. Once the implant is integrated or fused to the bone, an abutment is secured on top of the implant, and a tooth-colored crown is fastened to the abutment to completely replace the lost tooth.
Advantages of Dental Implants
1. Do Not Impact Surrounding Teeth
Unlike bridges, which rely on surrounding teeth for support, dental implants stand on their own. They are permanently secured into the jawbone and act exactly as a natural tooth would. No alterations need to be made to the surrounding teeth in order to place an implant. Most importantly, the ability to floss and properly brush the area is enhanced as implants are flossed just like regular teeth.
2. Do Not Cause Bone Loss
Whenever a tooth is missing, bone loss can occur over time. The jaw bone is stimulated on a daily basis by the chewing motion. When a tooth or several teeth have gone missing, stimulation in that area no longer occurs and can lead to deterioration of the jaw bone. This can literally cause a person’s face to change shape and accelerate the aging process. When implants are used to replace one or more teeth, the bone level is maintained, creating a youthful smile.
3. Do Not Slip
Dentures are another option for tooth replacement therapy, but they can be difficult to care for and clean. Dentures can also cause damage to the adjacent teeth, bone, and soft tissue in the mouth. Since they can easily be removed, they can also slip and affect a person’s speech and chewing. Dental implants cause no problems with normal activity because they are permanent and secure. We are now able to convert your old existing dentures into a fixed implant-supported appliance in one visit (“Teeth in a Day” and “All-on-4”), creating a more youthful appearance. Since they function exactly like natural teeth, dental implants do not require extra maintenance or mindfulness. They are truly the best option available to restore missing teeth.
If you have missing teeth and would like more information about the advantages of dental implants in Chicago, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Benjamin Fiss by calling (312) 642-6631 today. For your convenience, you may also fill out our online contact form.