Single and Multiple-Tooth Replacement with Dental Implants By N. Perry Orchard on September 10, 2013

When you are missing teeth, there are plenty of health issues and challenges that you will face. Some of these are more serious than others. Thankfully there are a number of restorative and cosmetic dentistry solutions out there that can help you achieve excellent dental health. One particular option for addressing tooth loss is implant dentistry. Let's look into this matter right now.

The Dental Problems Associated with Missing Teeth

Some of the most common dental problems associated with missing teeth are as follows:

Self-consciousness due to aesthetic problems with the smile
Problems eating certain foods
Possible speech impediments
Problems with facial aesthetics around lips due to major tooth loss
Gum recession in area of the tooth gap
Bone loss in the area of the tooth gap
Misalignment of the remaining teeth

A great option for addressing all of the above is getting dental implants placed to support dental restorations. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone and gum tissue, providing hold and stability comparable to natural tooth roots.

Good Candidates for Dental Implants

The best candidates for dental implants are people who have lost a tooth or multiple teeth and have sufficient jawbone and gum tissue remaining that can support the implant. Since oral surgery is required, it's important that patients not suffer from any health problems that would make surgery a possible health risk. Your dentist will note other factors for candidacy by looking over your dental health history and medical history.

There are many different kinds of dental restorations that can be supported with dental implants. Let's take a moment to go over these different options right now.

Dental Implants and Dental Crowns

Implant-supported dental crowns are a good option for people who are missing a single tooth or individual teeth in different parts of the mouth. The dental implant will support the individual dental crown with remarkable stability.

Dental Implants and Dental Bridges

For patients who are missing a few teeth in a row, the ideal option is an implant-supported dental bridge. Dental bridges are restorations designed to span a wider tooth gap. Removable dental bridges not supported by dental implants are held in place by clasping around existing tooth structure, but implant-supported dental bridges are supported through multiple dental implants for stability and security.

Dental Implants and Dentures

When a patient is missing many teeth along the dental arch, multiple dental crowns or a dental bridge is no longer a viable option to consider. In these instances, the best option for care is the use of a partial or full denture.

A denture is designed to fill a major tooth gap. Partial dentures are ideal for several missing teeth in a row, and full dentures are ideal for people who are missing most (if not all) of their teeth along the dental arch.

The Best Options for You and Your Needs

During your consultation, your dentist will help determine which treatment option is best suited to meet your needs. If you are not a good candidate for dental implants initially, bone grafting and soft tissue grafting procedures will be discussed as a potential option to make you an ideal candidate for implant dentistry.

Learn More About Advanced Restorative Dentistry

For more information about dental implants and your many other options out there for tooth replacement and smile restoration, be sure to contact our Corpus Christi dental care practice today. The entire team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the best dental health results possible.