Nearly 70% of the US population is missing at least one tooth, most commonly one of the back teeth. It might be easy to ignore this because it doesn’t impact your appearance as much as missing front tooth, but it could lead to a host of problems. Once a tooth has gone missing, the body naturally cuts off blood to the area, causing it to atrophy, which can then lead to more teeth falling out! How can you prevent this? The best way to replace your tooth and stop bone loss is with dental implants in Canton from Dr. Brian and Dr. Katherine Lee.
Why Dental Implants?
Your teeth are composed of two basic parts: the root and the crown. Most restorative procedures only repair the crown above the gum line, and this leaves you vulnerable to the gum recession and jaw atrophy that we just mentioned. The only way to stop and reverse this is by replacing the root, and that is exactly what dental implants do.
A dental implant is a small titanium post that is placed into your jaw. This new root serves two purposes. First, it provides a secure and sturdy base for your new tooth. Secondly, it helps restore the health of the surrounding bone and gums.
It is able to do this because titanium is bio-compatible, meaning that it naturally bonds with your jaw after it has been placed. This causes your body to renew blood flow to the area, revitalizing it. This assures the future health of your mouth and can save your other teeth from eventually falling out. Dental implants are the only procedure that can do this for you.
Dental implants are usually topped with a porcelain crown, which gives you a natural looking tooth that is also just as durable. Dental implants are also one of the most versatile ways you can replace your missing teeth, as they can restore a single tooth, anchor a bridge, or even support a set of dentures. Implant supported dentures have been shown to be better than traditional dentures in all aspects, including fit, look, and reliability
What is the Procedure Like?
After you have met with Drs. Brian and Katherine Lee and they have decided that you are a good candidate for dental implants, the procedure involves 3 basic steps:
- One of the doctors will place the titanium post into your jaw
- You will be given 3-6 months to heal
- Finally, the doctors will place your new crown
Drs. Brian and Katherine Lee are both dental implant specialists, meaning that they can complete the entire procedure themselves. This is unlike many other dental practices that would need to refer you to an outside specialist. This helps make the entire process faster, and assures that you will always be working with the same doctor that you trust.
The first part of the procedure involves a small incision in your gums, but this surgery can often be completed with only local anesthesia and has minimal recovery time. The 3-6 month period is mostly to allow time for your new root to firmly bond with your jaw. Once your implant has been completed, you only need to brush and floss it regularly to keep it looking beautiful for decades.
Have Questions?
Dental implants are the most complete and reliable way to replace your missing teeth. In fact, they have a 98% success rate. They can restore your teeth and protect your oral health like no other procedure can. If you think dental implants could the solution for you, make an appointment with us today.