dental implantIt’s important to take care of your teeth, not only because they serve an important function, but because they are also necessary for a confident, beautiful smile. Unfortunately, not everyone is lucky enough to have a strong set of teeth. Even if you practice excellent dental hygiene throughout your life, it is still possible to lose some teeth to from age, gum or tooth weakness, or even to an accident. No matter what the reason, it is very important to find a proper replacement for those missing teeth. While dentures are a simple alternative for replacing missing teeth, dental implants are fast becoming a more convenient, permanent solution.

The denture drawback
Dentures are a popular, and the most accepted way, of replacing missing teeth. They are simple to insert, and look realistic enough to pass as real teeth. However, dentures do have their drawbacks. Often dentures become loose and begin to slip out of place. This may be due to something as simple as constant use, or due to changes in the shape of your gums. When gums shrink, which they do when they no longer need to support real teeth, dentures are no longer well supported and slip. No one wants to be at lunch and suddenly realize their teeth aren’t where they should be.

What are dental implants?
How can one avoid replacement teeth becoming bothersome, and even embarrassing due to slippage? Dental implants are a permanent solution for the replacement of missing teeth. So what are dental implants? Quite simply, dental implants are small posts or screws either implanted in the jawbone, or fitted on top of the bone with a replacement tooth, or teeth fitted over them. Think of the posts or screws as artificial roots for new teeth.

The advantages of dental implants
With dental implants you don’t need to worry about artificial teeth sliding out at inopportune moments.  Loose fitting dentures can cause difficulty eating, speaking, and overall frustration, all things that dental implants can remedy. There will no longer be need for dental adhesives, or the hassle of taking teeth out in order to thoroughly clean them. Dental implants can be brushed and flossed the same as your real teeth, making maintenance simple!

Preparing for dental implants
It’s important to set up a consultation with your dentist and a periodontist to ensure that dental implants are a good alternative for you. In order to have a successful implant, you must have healthy gums, free of periodontal disease. In addition, you will need to have a series of X-rays completed in order to ensure there is a sufficient amount of jaw bone. Having a strong jaw bone is vital to supporting an implant.

A strong, healthy set of teeth is important. Consider getting dental implants as a permanent solution for missing teeth. The function, maintenance, and overall look of dental implants are an excellent substitution for your natural teeth.  Gentle Dental Center is ready to help you transition to dental implants.  To schedule an appointment to discuss implants, contact us at (757) 689-2940.  Let our team help you regain your smile!