9/26/2007

Dental Implants Provide Support and Comfort


Dental Implants Provide Support and Comfort by Patricia Woloch


A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are an ideal option for people in good general oral health who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason such as disease or decay.

While high-tech in nature, dental implants are actually more tooth-saving than traditional bridgework, since implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support.

Dental implants are so natural-looking and feeling, you may forget you ever lost a tooth. We all know that our confidence about our teeth affects how we feel about ourselves, both personally and professionally. No longer should you have to hide your smile due to missing teeth.
Perhaps you have difficulty chewing. If you are missing one or more teeth and would like to smile, speak and eat again with comfort and confidence, there is a solution out there for you that a highly trained cosmetic dentist can perform. Dental implants are teeth that can look and feel just like your own. Under proper conditions, such as perfect placement by your dentist and diligent patient maintenance, implants can last a lifetime. Long-term studies continue to show improving success rates for implants. What do Implants Do? · Replace one or more teeth without affecting bordering teeth. · Support a bridge and eliminate the need for a removable partial denture. · Provide support for a denture, making it more secure and comfortable. Types of Implants · Endosteal (in the bone): This is the most commonly used type of implant. The various types include screws, cylinders or blades surgically placed into the jawbone. Each implant holds one or more prosthetic teeth. This type of implant is generally used as an alternative for patients with bridges or removable dentures. · Subperiosteal (on the bone): These are placed on top of the jaw with the metal framework's posts protruding through the gum to hold the prosthesis. These types of implants are used for patients who are unable to wear conventional dentures and who have minimal bone height.

The ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease. Dental implants are intimately connected with the gum tissues and underlying bone in the mouth.

As you know, your own teeth require conscientious at-home oral care and regular dental visits. Dental implants are like your own teeth and will require the same care. In order to keep your implant clean and plaque-free, brushing and flossing still apply as directed by your cosmetic dentist.

After treatment, your cosmetic dentist will work closely with you to develop the best care plan for you. Periodic follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your implant, teeth and gums to make sure they are healthy.


About the Author
If you would like to learn more about dental implants and if they are an option for you, please visit the website of Orlando cosmetic dentist Dr. Matilde F. Castellini today or contact the office to schedule your initial consultation.

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