Dental caries is a common oral disease characterized by the demineralization of the enamel layer of the teeth, leading to cavities or holes. If not treated on time, infection may spread to the deeper layers of the teeth, eventually resulting in tooth loss.
Thankfully, dental evolution has paved the way for dental implants to restore missing teeth permanently.
The Kelowna dentist and their team offer state-of-the-art dental implants for complete oral rehabilitation.
A detailed description of dental implants
An artificial titanium screw-like device surgically inserted into your jawbone is known as a dental implant. This prosthesis mimics the lost tooth root to anchor future restorations like crowns, dentures, and bridges. Titanium, being highly biocompatible, can easily fuse with the jawbone, thereby stimulating it. These artificial tooth replacements feel and function similar to your natural teeth. They are customized to look exactly like the real ones, making it virtually impossible to see the difference.
Types of dental implants
There are several types of dental implants.
According to the number of missing teeth
- Single-tooth implant: Replaces only one tooth
- Multiple-tooth implant: Replaces a few missing teeth
- Full-mouth implant: Replaces all the missing teeth
According to the way they are attached to the jawbone
- Endosteal implants: This type of implant is inserted directly into the jawbone.
- Subperiosteal implants: This type of implant is placed on the jawbone, especially if you do not have sufficient bone density and thickness.
Potential benefits of dental implants
Dental implants are the most popular restorations since they offer the following advantages:
- Provide permanent tooth replacement
- Improve speech and masticatory functions
- Are fixed prostheses
- Prevent bone resorption
- Preserve your adjacent teeth
- Are highly durable and long-lasting
Being an ideal candidate for dental implants
Your dentist will determine if you are an ideal candidate for dental implants if you meet the following criteria:
- Have one or more missing teeth
- Have good gum health
- Have sufficient bone density and volume
- Are willing to give time for extensive procedures involved in dental implants
- Are an adult with fully developed jawbones
- Tired of ill-fitting conventional dentures
- Are dedicated to maintaining good oral hygiene
- Can afford dental implants since they may be costly compared to bridges and dentures
Discuss with your dentist about your individual oral needs concerning missing teeth. After a thorough evaluation, your dentist can determine if dental implants are the right choice of treatment for you.