An Implant Dentist Gives Seniors Options for Replacing Teeth

Seniors should see an implant dentist after losing teeth. Seventy percent of the U.S. population will lose at least one of their adult teeth. A common misconception is that dentures are the only solution for replacing one or all of a person's missing teeth. This is an effective solution that has been used for hundreds of years. While dentures work, they do not feel like natural teeth and are not ideal for people with active lifestyles.

Fortunately, there are alternatives that help seniors by replacing their teeth while maintaining their quality of life. Dentures may make it difficult to eat certain foods, sing or laugh without them coming loose. This is not the case with solutions offered through cosmetic dentistry.

An implant dentist can provide a permanent solution for replacing a missing tooth that will not come loose or create any restrictions once in place. This can help seniors feel like their normal selves and continue life the way that they were living instead of having to adjust in order to accommodate their teeth. The procedure can work to replace one tooth or all of a person's teeth.

In order to qualify for an implant procedure, the gums and jawbone need to be in good condition. If they are not dental treatments like treating gum disease or having an oral surgeon conduct a sinus lift can be performed to get them healthy enough for the implant procedure. These procedures can prepare the mouth for implants. It is important to have the procedure done when the rest of the mouth is healthy so that the patient can have a quick recovery time.

A mold will be taken of the existing teeth in order for the dental lab to create synthetic teeth that match the size, shape, and color of the other ones. This is important for ensuring that the implants look natural once they are in place. In order to start the procedure, an implant dentist will place a metal post under the surface of the gums and attach it to the jawbone. The two elements will eventually fuse together and create an extremely durable synthetic root system. It can take a few months for the gums to heal. During this time, most patients will wear a temporary denture.

Once the gums are completely healed the implant will be secured into place by attaching it to a second metal piece at the surface of the gums. The tooth will be positioned perfectly to fit in with the other teeth, without causing any trauma to the teeth around it. Since each implant stands on its own, there is no requirement for the surrounding teeth to be strong. Once in place, the implant is cared for just like a natural tooth would be. Simply brush and floss like normal along with having regular teeth cleanings to keep the implant and natural teeth in good shape.

Those who want to have a tooth replaced but do not want a surgical procedure may benefit from having a dental bridge placed. In this procedure, a crown is placed on the two teeth surrounding the missing one. These two crowns serve to create a bridge that holds the new tooth in place.

To learn more about your options call today.