There are many options when it comes to restoring a smile after losing one or more teeth, but few can compare with modern dental implants. Dental implants will not only help recreate the smile of your dreams, but they will also make eating and speaking easier than ever. Anyone that is currently struggling with missing teeth should take a careful look at this amazing restorative treatment option that could have them smiling with confidence in as little as a few weeks.
The Importance of Treating Missing Teeth
Teeth are lost for a variety of reasons, and statistics continue to show that almost everyone will deal with at least one missing tooth in their lifetime. For many, a tooth is lost or must be extracted because the inner pulp has been damaged due to trauma or another serious medical condition. Currently, one of the most common causes of tooth loss is gum disease, a condition that affects over 8 percent of the total adult population.
Many people tend to consider tooth loss nothing more than a cosmetic issue, but little do they realize that untreated tooth loss can lead to a variety of serious health complications. When a tooth is no longer in the proper position, all of the surrounding teeth will begin to “slump” inwards to fill the gap. Over time, the other teeth can become so displaced that chewing becomes nearly impossible, and there is a high risk of losing those teeth as well. A final concern comes down to the health of the jawbone. The roots of a tooth stimulate bone growth, and when they go missing the strength of the bone goes down significantly.
The Implant Process
Dental implants will require two or three visits to the dental office beginning with the initial consultation. Because tooth loss is often accompanied by a variety of other oral health problems, it is important to ensure that the mouth is healthy enough to accept the implants. During the next appointment, the actual implants will be embedded in the jaw and form a powerful bond in a process known as osseointegration. Dr. Jamie Sands uses custom-made zirconium abutments that are extremely durable, metal-free and look completely natural. Once the mouth has healed, the false teeth are then attached.
Benefits of Dental Implants
From the moment that the false teeth have been affixed to the rods, patients will once again be able to smile with confidence. Dental implants are exceptionally easy to care for and require nothing more than daily brushing, flossing, and mouthwash. Each tooth is customized for the patient, and this means that they will match the color, size, and shape of the remaining natural teeth. The actual crowns (false teeth) will last for as long as 15 years while the implant itself should last a lifetime. This means no more struggling with a second-rate smile or uncomfortable removable dentures for the rest of the patient’s life.
Contact Dr. Jamie Sands in Studio City to schedule your consultation. Doctor Sands will work with you to determine if dental implants are right for you, and she can recommend treatment options to fit your needs.