In the wake of tooth loss, addressing the sites of any lost teeth is vitally important to one’s gums, jawbone, and remaining teeth. If left untreated, these vacated areas may become infected, and the remaining teeth could shift out of alignment. It may also contribute to a loss of jawbone density.
For anyone who’s lost one or more teeth, dental implants can not only help to address these issues but also provide long-term comfort and a natural look and feel.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are an excellent solution to tooth loss. In this procedure, artificial roots are implanted into the jawbone and then covered with a porcelain crown. The results are long-lasting, and the implants are designed to function exactly like natural teeth. Implants differ from other tooth replacement solutions like dentures and bridges in that they replace not just the tooth but also the root.
Benefits of Dental Implants
It’s easy to see why dental implants are popular among patients who’ve lost teeth. First and foremost, dental implants offer greater durability than other replacement options. With proper care, a dental implant can last a lifetime without the need for retreatment. Secondly, dental implants aren’t simply a superficial solution, as they replace the root in the socket in the jawbone, which helps to maintain jawbone density and prevents remaining teeth from shifting out of alignment. Finally, and every bit as importantly, implants are the most natural-looking and feeling of all tooth replacement options.
Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?
While dental implants are an excellent solution for patients who’ve experienced tooth loss, they’re unfortunately not right for everyone, as dental implants recipients should:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have fairly healthy gums (People with gum disease must speak with their dentist about their candidacy for dental implants.)
- Have a jawbone strong enough to support an implant
For these reasons, it’s important that a patient consults with a dentist in order to determine suitability for dental implants.
Dental Implants in Edina, MN
If you’re in the Edina area and would like to learn more about dental implants and whether they’re right for you, contact dentist Dr. Andrew Anderson and the 50th and France Dental Care team to schedule a consultation appointment.