Ways in which dental implants can improve the smile
- Posted on: May 15 2020
Patients with missing teeth are often unsure as to the best way to restore their smile. There are various methods available, and Dr. James A. Oshetski of Brunswick, ME encourages men and women to speak to him about tooth replacement options including dental implants. Dental implants are a long-lasting and highly desirable way to replace one or more teeth within the smile.
What is a dental implant?
The implant itself is a titanium metal restoration that appears as a small post or hardware screw. During oral surgery, the dentist places the implant into the jaw of the bone. This stimulates a process known as osseointegration, which is the growth of natural bone around the implant to achieve a solid foundation. The way the dental implant is restored on top will vary depending on the situation.
Ways in which dental implants replace missing teeth
Dental implants are incredibly versatile because they can be used in several different ways. Below are the common ways in which a dentist may utilize a dental implant:
- To replace a single tooth – dental implants are commonly used in replacing just a single tooth. The implant is placed where the tooth has gone missing, and the top of the implant’s abutment is covered with a full dental crown.
- To replace several teeth in a row – another way in which a dentist may utilize a dental implant is to act as an anchor for a dental bridge. Dental bridges are made with crowns on each end and false teeth called pontic fused in-between. The bridges require adjacent teeth for placement. If adjacent teeth are not available, a dental implant can be utilized instead.
- To anchor a full denture in place – full dentures can be problematic for some patients, never really staying in place or providing the stabilization they need to enjoy their favorite foods. In these situations, dental implants may be inserted along the dental arch and made to connect with the full denture.
Ready to learn more about dental implants?
Dr. James A. Oshetski is pleased to offer Brunswick, ME area patients solutions for the smile, including the placement and restoration of dental implants. If you are interested in discovering the benefits of this treatment, we recommend calling our facility at (207) 729-1159 and visiting us for an evaluation.
Posted in: Dental Implants
