Few events in childhood rival the joy of losing that first tooth! Unfortunately the opposite is true for most adults. There are a number of problems with adult tooth loss. First, it can be embarrassing and frustrating smiling when you have a missing tooth. More importantly, though, having a missing tooth or teeth can negatively affect your ability to chew confidently, particularly with tough foods. Dental implants can help complete your smile, cosmetically and functionally, so that you can enjoy your favorite foods, and your life again, all with the confidence that comes form a beautiful smile.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts that must be surgically inserted into the jawline. Once there, because of the biocompatibility of the titanium, your bone and tissue will grow around the post helping to stabilize your replacement tooth and your smile.
The post can be connected to a single fake tooth, called a pontic, a partial denture or a dental crown, which takes the place of your missing tooth. Any one of these options helps keep your smile in tact by preventing your remaining teeth from trying to fill the gap created by your lost tooth or teeth.
When the post has completely healed, your dentist will be able to place the replacement tooth using an abutment, which connects the post and the replacement tooth. After the replacement tooth has been securely attached, you should be able to enjoy all your favorite foods, to speak normally, and just as importantly, to smile proudly, knowing your smile is natural-looking and beautiful.
Are You a Good Candidate?
Whether or not you make a good candidate for dental implants will depend largely on your overall oral health and the cause of your tooth loss. If, for instance, gum disease played a part in your tooth loss, you will likely need periodontal treatment before becoming eligible for an implant. That’s because your jaw must be in good health to support the titanium post.
ABOUT YOUR LAKEWOOD, CO, DENTIST:
Dr. Kyla Fant and her team at Family West Dentistry share a strong drive for clinical excellence that is matched only by their dedication to developing close, personal relationships with each and every patient. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Fant, call our office today at 303-234-1349. Located in Lakewood, CO, we happily welcome patients from Golden, Wheat Ridge, Arvada, Littleton, Morrison, and all of the surrounding communities.