If you’re looking to restore the normal function and aesthetics of your mouth after losing some teeth, your dentist may recommend that you get a dental implant to replace one tooth or to support bridgework or dentures when replacing multiple teeth. A dental implant refers to a biocompatible fixture that is surgically placed into the jawbone underneath an area with missing teeth, so it can fuse with the bone to provide a strong and stable artificial tooth root that can support the replacement tooth. 

When to Consider Dental Implants 

If you are missing one or more teeth, a dental implant can help to prevent the teeth adjacent to the gap from tilting or shifting, which might misalign your bite and cause other dental problems. The teeth on the opposing jaw may also grow irregularly because there’s no mate to make contact with, causing you to injure the gum tissue in that area. This can create a chronic sore spot and discomfort. Moreover, the bone tissue under the gums may begin to shrink away (resorption) due to lack of stimulation during chewing, causing your face to appear aged. Dental implants can prevent these issues

Although dental implants are often associated with tooth replacement, your dentist may also recommend them to assist other dental treatments, such as:

• To support removable dentures – the stability of implants can provide a more comfortable and secure fit 
• To serve as temporary anchorage devices (TAD) for orthodontic procedures – dental mini-implants can function as anchorage for moving crooked teeth with an orthodontic appliance. The implants are then extracted when the orthodontic treatment is completed. 

Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

That said, there are several factors that may affect your suitability as a candidate for dental implants, including:

• Position of the missing tooth in the mouth 
• Quality and quantity of jawbone in the area with the gap 
• General health of the patient 
• Cost of treatment 

If you have one or more missing teeth, it’s important that you get them replaced as soon as possible. This is particularly important if you’re considering getting dental implants, so the implant can be placed in healthy bone tissue before bone resorption begins. Please visit your dentist to learn more about dental implants and how they can help to restore the function and aesthetic of your mouth. For more information on dental implants in Anaheim CA and to find out the cost of your individual treatment, please contact us today.