Losing a few of your natural teeth can impact your ability to communicate and feel confident about your smile. There are several restorative procedures and treatments available for such concerns. While your dentist is the best person to advise on tooth replacement South Denver, we have included some essential details about dental implants in this post.

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is made of titanium and helps restore your smile by offering a strong and secure foundation for replacement teeth. The implant post is placed in the jawbone, and with time, it becomes a part of your mouth. An attachment called an abutment is fixed to the implant post, on which the replacement teeth are placed. Crowns are usually used to replace one missing tooth, while multiple missing teeth can be replaced through dental bridges and bridges that are supported by implants.

Comparing dental implants with dentures

While both dentures and dental implants are used to replace missing teeth, there are some stark differences. Firstly, a dental implant becomes a part of the mouth. No matter whether a crown or denture is used on the implant, the outcome is excellent. The replacement teeth will not move around or slip out – a key concern with dentures. You can also expect dental implants to last a lifetime. Dentures, on the other hand, are more affordable. Dentures cannot prevent the loss of bone mass but remain a great choice for many patients, especially seniors. Getting dentures is not as complex as dental implants, as the healing process for the latter is considerably longer.

Getting dental implants

Your dentist will discuss the treatment plan before the procedure. In some cases, patients may need a bone graft, especially if they have lost significant bone mass. Once the implants are in place, it can take up to 12 weeks for the jawbone to heal, following which replacement teeth are fixed. The replacement teeth could be dentures or dental bridges, and if you are missing one tooth, you can get a crown. Detailed imaging is required to start the procedure, and you may have to schedule multiple appointments after the initial oral surgery.

Despite the healing time, dental implants remain a better and more permanent choice for replacing missing teeth. If you don’t want to get dentures that are not as effective, this could be your final option. Talk to your dentist to know the risks and if you qualify for the treatment.