Multiple Teeth Dental Implants An Overview
The loss of one tooth, several teeth or a full arch of teeth can all have a dramatic impact on the appearance and health of your smile. In addition to the changes in function and aesthetics, the lost tooth roots will also have a detrimental effect on the integrity of remaining natural teeth and jaw bone. Over time, your general oral health can significantly deteriorate and diminish your quality of life in many ways.
Dr. Datta Malyavantham is a Northern Virginia implant dentist with experience and expertise in the use of dental implants to replace lost teeth or to secure a dental bridge or denture. Dental implants provide the most natural, secure and stable solution for restoring your smile. Patients enjoy an over 95% success rate due to the dental health and lifestyle benefits that implants offer when compared to traditional tooth replacement options.
For patients missing several teeth, Dr. Datta can place several single tooth implants or secure a custom dental bridge with implants. He will work with you to determine which option is best for your oral health and personal goals. The goal of treatment is to stabilize and support your dental health while giving you back the confidence to speak, eat and enjoy life each day without restrictions or fear of embarrassment.
Dental Bridge vs Dental Implants: What to Consider?
Many patients will have the option of choosing between a traditional dental bridge or a dental implant when replacing lost teeth. Dr. Datta will educate you on all aspects of your unique oral health concerns and how your treatment options can improve them for your consideration. When it comes to choosing between an implant or a bridge, there are several important factors to consider that can impact your long term dental health:
- Stability of the restoration: a dental implant or implant secured appliance is permanent, secure and can last a lifetime with good oral hygiene and dental care. For most patients, there will come a time when a dental bridge requires maintenance or replacement to maintain function and comfort. Using implants instead of a removable appliance will minimize irritation of and changes in the gums and soft tissues of the mouth.
- Normal chewing and speech: implants give patients the restored ability to speak and chew as if their natural teeth were in place. Permanently secured into the jaw bone, an implant keeps a dental bridge or denture from slipping.
- Maintaining natural jaw structure: implants replace the lost tooth root which both stabilizes and stimulates bone tissue growth in the jaw. Traditional removable appliances do not offer this benefit and most patients will experience bone loss and corresponding shrinkage of the jaw, lending a prematurely aged appearance.
