There are many reasons why teeth either need to be removed or simply fall out. These can include tooth decay, advancing gum disease, accidents, inherited conditions or advanced wear and tear due to ageing. Teeth can also be congenitally missing, leaving spaces throughout the mouth or may be lost as a result of serious infections such as failing root canal treatment.  

When teeth are lost, the bone underneath the gum shrinks due to lack of stimulation from the teeth. This shrinkage can lead to a huge change in facial appearance and the face can collapse through lack of support. 

Dental Implants are usually made from titanium and used to replace single teeth, several teeth or form the basis of a complete reconstruction of a collapsed mouth. Titanium is the most bio-compatible material we know and once placed, fuses to the jaw bone fully. It is because of this characteristic, that dental implants can be considered permanent. 

Ther are a number of ways dental implants can be planned and utilized. Essentially though, they are placed into the jaw bone once occupied by a tooth root, involving a small invasive procedure. There then follows a natural healing process which is exactly the same as when a tooth is extracted. This is normally between 8 - 16 weeks. During this time the implant fuses to the bone, a process is called Osseointegration. At this stage, posts can be connected to the implant now emerging through the gum. It is on these posts that porcelain crowns and bridges are constructed making either single crowns or complete mouth restorations possible.

MISSING TEETH? YOUR OPTIONS

REMOVABLE DENTURES: This removable option can contribute to tooth decay, gum disease and further shrinkage of bone and gum.

ADHESIVE BRIDGES: These use metal wings adhered to the back of teeth adjacent to gaps. Tooth cutting is minimal or not required. Unfortunately they can become loose. 

CONVENTIONAL PORCELAIN BONDED BRIDGES: A traditional replacement for missing teeth involves cutting down teeth either side of the gap then crowns supporting the bridge cemented into place. Sometimes it is necessary to cut down healthy tooth structure and it is possible for a bridge to become loose and decay. 

DENTAL IMPLANTS: Dental implants support the bone and gum and are not attached to the teeth in any way. They are an ideal tooth replacement. They create strong, permanent natural looking teeth. They can be used to replace a single tooth or many teeth, including full mouth replacement. 

If you would like further information on replacing a missing tooth with an implant or using implants to stabilize a denture please do not hesitate to ask your dentist or speak to Teresa at reception.

                     

 

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