What Possible Solutions Are There For Missing Teeth?

For patients with missing teeth, having gaps in their teeth can also contribute to a decline in confidence. Understandably, it is therefore common that solutions for missing teeth are sought out when a tooth is lost, knocked out, or an extraction seems to be on the horizon.

Dental implants Windsor are a popular option for patients who have lost one or more teeth. They are a long term solution for missing teeth that is known for mimicking the natural tooth’s function and appearance, allowing patients to enjoy a healthy smile and improved oral wellbeing. They can be used to treat a range of dental issues, including missing teeth, severe decay, and damage due to injury.

What are they?

These prosthetics are made of three parts including artificial tooth roots that are placed into the jawbone, an abutment, and a visible prosthetic such as a crown or denture. The implanted screws are typically made of titanium, a biocompatible material (considered hypoallergenic) that fuses with the bone (a process known as osseointegration), creating a strong and stable foundation for the replacement tooth or teeth.

Once the implanted screw has fused with the bone, the abutment is installed, providing the surface for the visible prosthetic to be adhered to. Following this, a crown or denture is attached to the implant, completing the restoration.

Are there any advantages to be aware of?

Dental implants Windsor offer numerous benefits for oral wellbeing, including:

Improved appearance: they can look and feel like natural teeth, improving the appearance of the smile.

Improved function: they function like natural teeth, allowing patients to eat and speak normally.

Improved oral health: they do not require the alteration of adjacent teeth, preserving the natural teeth and taking steps in preventing further decay.

Improved bone health: the implanted screws stimulate the jawbone to heal, helping in the prevention of bone loss and preserving the facial structure.

Durability: they are a long term solution for missing teeth, lasting many years with proper care. It may be that dental implants can last a lifetime when they are looked after well.

Who can be treated with these replacements?

Most patients who have lost one or more teeth are suitable candidates for this form of tooth replacement. However, the dental practitioner will want to evaluate the oral health, medical history, and possibly bone density of the patient to help determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure. Patients with certain medical conditions may not be suitable for this treatment.

Procedure

The procedure typically involves two stages. During the first stage, the implanted titanium screw is placed into the jawbone, and a temporary crown or bridge can be attached to the implant (although this is not possible in every case and should be discussed with a dentist). The screw is left to heal and fuse with the bone, a process that can take several months. Once this has fully healed, the temporary restoration is removed, and a permanent crown or bridge is attached to the abutment inserted into the screw.

Aftercare

After the procedure, patients should make every effort to maintain good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups. Patients can be advised to avoid particular foods for a time, and may expect to receive advice about smoking and oral health where appropriate.