If you are in need of a single tooth replacement, a dental implant and crown combination is most likely your best option. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root made of titanium that is surgically placed in the jaw bone. Titanium is a biocompatible metal that fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration. Once the implant root is securely bonded with the jaw bone, an abutment and crown can be attached to the top.
The crown is typically made of porcelain, which is a type of ceramic that most closely resembles natural tooth enamel. It offers the same look and function as a natural tooth, giving you comparable bite strength.
If you need to replace a few teeth in a row, it is possible to get them all replaced with implants. But another option is to get an implant supported bridge. A bridge is a row of artificial teeth that are suspended between two dental implants with crowns on either side. A bridge can also attach to your natural teeth, however, there are some disadvantages to that option. The healthy teeth will need to be shaved down and fitted with crowns that attach to the bridge and the pressure it puts on those teeth can eventually cause damage.
Do you have an entire arch of teeth that need to be replaced? Dental implants can act as anchors for snap on dentures. Traditional dentures attach with suction and adhesives, but implant supported dentures are much more secure for eating and speaking.
How Many Teeth Do You Need to Replace?
Dental implants are one of the best options for tooth replacement. Implants can replace one tooth, a few teeth, or even an entire arch of teeth. A dental implant and crown combination can replace a single tooth. A few implants can also be used to anchor bridges and snap on dentures.
Which option is right for you depends on a number of factors. Here’s what to consider in making your decision.
What is the Reason For the Replacement?
Another important factor to take into consideration is the reason the tooth or teeth need to be replaced. Is it due to severe decay or perhaps gum disease that caused the teeth to loosen? Was a tooth knocked out accidentally?
To be an ideal candidate for a dental implant, there must be sufficient bone mass in the jaw to support an implant. If a tooth has been missing for a while, the bone that held it in place begins to shrink and dissolve and may not be able to hold an implant. This means that a bone graft procedure may need to be done first to strengthen and thicken the bone. During this procedure, artificial or cadaver bone is placed on pre-existing bone in order to thicken or augment the area.. Once this has been accomplished a dental implant can be placed successfully. A bone graft may also be necessary if there was an injury to the jaw.
Gum disease is another concern when it comes to dental implants. If gum disease is present, it must first be treated before an implant can be placed. Gum disease can negatively affect the health of the jaw bone, making it unfit to receive an implant.
Is Cost a Concern?
If cost is no matter to you, you can receive as many dental implants as your mouth will allow. But in the case of multiple teeth that need replaced, an implant supported bridge or denture might be a more cost effective option. Insurance does not typically cover dental implants, but it may cover a portion. Any out of pocket cost can be financed to make it more affordable.
Find Your Best Option at Holzinger Periodontics and Dental Implants
If you’re considering a dental implant, Holzinger Periodontics and Dental Implants provides a range of tooth replacement options so that you can find the right one for you. Whether you’re replacing a single tooth or an entire arch, dental implants can play a part in your restoration.
Call (860) 347-8457 to schedule a consultation at our Middletown office or (860) 224-0433 for our New Britain office. You can also request an appointment at your most convenient location. We look forward to providing you with the best tooth replacement option.