If you have missing teeth, it is imperative to find a replacement option. Otherwise, you can develop significant dental issues, such as further tooth loss or bone deterioration. At Crestwood Dental, Dr. Gorsky can work with you to replace your missing teeth using dental implants. Dental implants are considered the “gold standard” of tooth replacement and offer several key benefits for restoring both oral health and lifestyle.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are prosthetic teeth that can replace a single missing tooth or secure a dental bridge or denture. Implants provide the most naturally-functioning results when compared to all of your tooth replacement treatment options. Dr. Gorsky will work with you to evaluate your overall needs and aesthetic goals, creating a personalized treatment plan to rebuild and restore your smile with dental implants.
Replacing teeth with dental implants can offer several key benefits for your overall oral health and your quality of life:
- Bone stabilization in the jaw: when a tooth is lost, the bone tissue in and around the area begins to shrink. Over time, if several teeth are lost, this leads to changes in the shape of the jaw. Dental implants also replace lost tooth roots, stabilize bone tissue, and support your natural jaw and bite structure.
- Permanent results: your new smile is permanent and secure with implant dentistry. There is no removable appliance that can move around or irritate the gums over time.
- Normal chewing restored: dental implants provide new teeth that feel and function like natural teeth. They restore normal biting forces and the ability to chew all types of food.
- Confident speech: slipping dentures can make it difficult to speak clearly. An implant supported denture allows normal, confident speech.
The Dental Implant Process
The timetable and overall process for placing dental implants can vary from patient to patient. Your initial consultation will include digital diagnostics, a dental exam, and a discussion of your personal needs and goals. All of this information is important in the development of a successful treatment plan. Key factors are the number of implants, the oral health of the patient, and the types of implants being placed. Dr. Gorsky may recommend bone grafting or a sinus lift in cases where there has been significant oral deterioration. The best results depend on a stable oral foundation.
For single-tooth implants, we will need to place the implant post into the jaw and allow time for this to heal before placing the final restoration or prosthetic tooth. In some cases, we will place a temporary restoration to complete your smile and restore normal function. Single-tooth implants are the best choice for most patients and offer oral health benefits when compared to a dental bridge.
If an implant-supported denture is being placed, we will evaluate your needs to ensure the appropriate treatment choice. If the All-On-Four process is suitable, Dr. Gorsky will coordinate with any specialists as needed and plan the necessary steps for removing any remaining teeth, placing implants, and securing a new denture.