According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, 69% of Americans aged 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth to an accident, tooth decay, gum disease or a failed root canal. However, losing a tooth or multiple teeth can leave you feeling self-conscious about your smile.
It used to be that bridges were the solution for a gap in your smile, but with advances in periodontics, dental implants may be the best solution.
Bridges
For a long time, bridges were the best option for people with missing teeth. Bridges are non-removable prostheses attached to remaining natural teeth. The false tooth or teeth literally bridge the gap between natural teeth. Unfortunately, bridges can cause some problems because the natural teeth on either side of the bridge are filed down to accept the prosthetic. This step may make surrounding teeth prone to bacterial plaque buildups, causing decay, periodontal disease, and the possibility of future root canals.
Dental Implants
If you’re missing teeth and your gums and jaw are healthy, dental implants may be more beneficial for you. Dental implants are titanium alloy posts that are surgically installed into the upper or lower jaw that can be topped with a natural white crown so they look and feel like your real teeth. Two or more implants can easily serve as the support base for several replacement teeth.
Because the dental implants fuses with your jaw during a process called osseointegration, they usually help prevent gum and bone deterioration, jawbone recession and facial collapse. They also can last for 20 years or more with proper oral hygiene compared to bridges, which need to be replaced every seven to 15 years.
Dental implants are simply the gold standard for replacing a single missing tooth. Though implants cost a little more than bridges at first, people who opt for dental implants generally feel better, look better and live better in the long-term.
Richardson Periodontics & Implant Dentistry is a full service periodontics and implant dentistry in Eustis, FL. Richardson Periodontics & Implant Dentistry offers a full array of periodontics services to help you maintain healthy gums and a beautiful smile. Contact our Eustis office at 352-589-1973 for more information about dental implants or schedule your appointment online.