Introduction
More than half of today’s population is affected by the loss of one or more teeth. Because our lifestyles, social activities, and appearances are so much a part of our individual uniqueness, tooth loss may be a deeply personal issue. However, with the latest advancements in dentistry, no one should feel self-conscious about his or her smile, comfort, or ability to eat certain foods. Today, because of dental implants, thousands of people are eating and enjoying foods they have not tasted in years.
If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants are a great option for replacing those teeth. Implants have a natural look, feel, and function. They are the most attractive, natural, and comfortable replacement for missing teeth. Implants can replace teeth that have been missing since birth, or teeth lost to gum disease, infection, trauma, or decay. They can replace single or multiple teeth, and they can dramatically increase the retention and stability of dentures.
Dental implants distribute chewing forces throughout the jawbone, restoring the chewing power lost with missing teeth, and minimizing the wearing away of the jawbone that normally occurs when teeth are lost. Many patients who have received dental implants comment that they feel a significant improvement in the quality of their lives. They feel more confident and comfortable when they chew and smile. Implants also eliminate many of the problems associated with bridges, removable partials, and full dentures.
The Consequences of Tooth Loss
When people lose teeth, they also lose the support of underlying bone. As bone reduction occurs, problems associated with the lack of support can lead to denture discomfort, mobility, and lack of retention. Continued loss of bone on the upper and lower jaws can affect the appearance of the overlying facial soft tissue, giving the appearance of advanced aging.