Missing teeth can lead to some serious dental complications if not treated in a timely manner. Everything from shifting in your remaining teeth to facial sagging can result after losing a tooth or multiple teeth. With dental implants in Hampton Roads, VA, patients have a variety of options to restore their bites. Whether you’re missing a single tooth, multiple teeth, or an entire arch of teeth, dental implants could be able to help. With the right implant treatment plan, you may be able to restore your smile and improve the strength of your bite.
Restoration Options for Dental Implants in Hampton Roads, VA
Dental implants are among the most recommended treatment options for patients with missing teeth. This is mainly because the implant post mimics the natural root structure of your tooth for added stability and support. However, not everyone can benefit from implants. To get a dental implant, you need to have good oral health to begin with. Patients with gum disease or loss of bone density in their jaw may need additional treatment before they can get an implant.
Single Dental Implant
If you’re only missing one tooth, a single dental implant can often help restore your bite. A single implant is most commonly restored using a dental crown. It can take a few months for the implant to properly integrate with your jawbone. But after the implant has successfully healed, your dentist can apply an abutment and fabricate your dental crown. Dental implants are often a great choice for restoring single missing teeth as they tend to provide the most benefits for the longest amount of time.
Implant-Supported Bridge
If you’re missing multiple teeth in a row, a dental bridge is likely your best restoration option. With a traditional dental bridge, the fake teeth (or pontics) are secured in place using dental crowns on the neighboring teeth. However, this kind of bridge is often less stable than an implant-supported bridge. With an implant bridge, your dentist places two implants at the end of the bridge with dental crowns that support the pontics. This method often helps patients experience longer-lasting treatment.
Implant-Secured Denture
When you’re missing an entire arc or teeth, a denture is often the best option to help restore your smile. An implant-secured denture can help restore your bite without the common problems of a traditional denture. Because your denture is secured in place by implants, there’s often less movement and a reduced chance of your dentures falling out. By strategically placing implants at certain points and angles, your dentist can often provide maximum support with as little as four implants.
If you’re missing teeth or need an extraction, the sooner you seek treatment, the better. At First Light Dental, we coordinate with local oral surgeons to offer a range of restoration options using dental implants. Call us today at 757.414.7227 to schedule a consultation and learn more about dental implants.