A multiple tooth implant is an effective option for replacing missing teeth. Because implants involve surgery, this type of treatment plan is not recommended for every patient. If patients have lost teeth due to disease or accident, they should consult their dentist to determine available treatment options. If a patient is a good candidate for implants, good oral hygiene is essential for success.
What is the process for tooth implants?
Once the dentist has approved a patient for dental implants, the process involves three basic steps:
1. Implant placement
First, the dentist determines where the implants need to be placed using X-rays and other diagnostic pictures. The surgery begins with the dentist cutting the gum to expose the bone. Next, holes are drilled into the bone and the metal posts, the implants, are rooted into the bone. The posts are placed deep in the bone, serving as a replacement for normal tooth roots.
2. Healing
It can take a few months for a patient to heal from the placing of an implant. During healing, the jawbone grows around the implant in a process called osseointegration. This process makes the implant strong because it integrates the metal posts into the jawbone. A temporary denture can be placed over the implant area to hide the gap during healing.
3. Prosthesis placement
The final step in a multiple tooth implant is attaching the permanent teeth to the metal posts. The dentist or dental lab custom-makes a bridge or dentures for the patient, depending on how many teeth are missing. An implant-supported bridge can fill in several missing teeth, whereas implant-supported dentures are for patients who are missing all the teeth on the upper or lower arch.
What are the benefits of implants?
A patient with missing teeth has several options including implants, removable partial dentures, and fixed bridges. Dental implants offer many benefits over other treatment methods. One of the main benefits is a secure fit. Partial dentures can slip or shift in the mouth, causing pain or discomfort. Second, fixed bridges may cause damage to adjacent teeth, while implants do not need other teeth to be crowned. Third, implants give firm support and keep the jawbone strong. Finally, implants can last a lifetime if a patient practices good oral care.
Recommended candidates
While some may assume older individuals are unable to have implant surgery, other factors are more important. Patients who are healthy and have sufficient jawbone are good candidates. A patient who is lacking enough jawbone can choose to have bone grafting. This surgery rebuilds the jawbone to support the implant. A potential candidate must also commit to good oral hygiene at home. Patients who are generally not recommended for implants are those with underlying health conditions or poor dental habits.
Conclusion
A consultation with the dentist can determine if a patient is a candidate for a multiple tooth implant. This treatment plan is a great option for those patients with good health and sufficient jawbone.
Request an appointment here: https://pier210dental.com or call Pier 210 Dental Group at (530) 885-5696 for an appointment in our Auburn office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Multiple Teeth Replacement Options in Auburn, CA.
