Dental Implants
Twin Falls, ID
Just because you lose teeth does not mean that you are now stuck without them. Missing teeth can, and should, be replaced. Today, you have several options restorative available to you when it comes to replacing the teeth you lose. One of the many options we offer at Summit Dental Care is dental implants.
Parts Of Dental Implants
Dental implants consist of three basic components. A titanium alloy post acts as the replacement root. This part is screwed directly into your jawbone. An abutment is placed on the top of the post. This is the connector that provides stability for the crown. The crown, typically made from ceramic, is the actual piece that replaces the visible portion of your missing tooth.
How Many Teeth Can Implants Replace?
Dental implants can be used in numerous tooth replacement situations. An implant can replace a single missing tooth. They can even be used to replace an entire arch of teeth or a full mouth of teeth. Most people who have suffered tooth loss are good candidates for dental implants. No matter if you have lost one tooth or many teeth, we can help you to figure out if they are the right choice for you.
How Many Posts Do I Need?
The number of implant posts required will depend upon your specific situation. If you are replacing just one missing tooth, you will only need a single post and a single crown. If you are missing several teeth, you may have one post for each missing tooth. It may also be possible to support several teeth on as little as two implant posts. Based on the health of your jawbone, we can determine the ideal number of implant posts to provide you with the optimal results. For those missing an entire arch of teeth, and who have a fairly healthy jawbone, 6 to 8 implants can be used to support your replacement teeth.
Restoring Bone Mass After Bone Loss
After you lose teeth, you begin to experience bone loss. In the first year after tooth loss, you can lose as much as 25% of your bone mass, and this loss continues over time. The longer you go without replacing your missing teeth, the less likely it becomes that an implant can be placed. If the bone is not strong enough, it cannot properly fuse to the post, increasing your risk for failure. This does not mean you can’t get implants. Implants can be made possible with a surgical procedure known as a bone graft. This process involves placing graft material, such as your bone mass, donor bone, or synthetic materials, into the affected area of your jaw. During the healing phase, your jawbone regains strength, which then aids in increasing the success of dental implants.
Graft-Free Options
For those missing all teeth in the upper or lower arch, and who have suffered significant bone loss, a bone graft can be expensive. Fortunately, there are full arch replacement options that allow you to receive dental implants without first having to undergo a bone graft. This means no additional surgery, and the treatments are generally more affordable. These options include the All-on-4® Treatment Concept, as well as removable implant options such as those supported by a bar or by snap-on balls. We can go over your options to help you find the best one for you.
Dental implants offer you an incredible, long-term solution for replacing your missing teeth. Call Summit Dental Care at (208) 733-9999 today to schedule your consultation.