When patients need to replace missing teeth, their ability to continue to enjoy their favorite foods is an important consideration. You have many options for tooth replacement, but not all of them perform the same level of functioning. Dental implants have the ability to restore 100% of the function of natural teeth while other replacements have as little as a sixth of the function.
Dental implants are made of titanium, which is biocompatible. This means that after the prosthodontist inserts the implant into the jaw, the bone will fuse with it, forming a permanent bond. That bond between the bone and the implant helps the replacement tooth tolerate stronger chewing forces than a device that lacks such a connection to the jaw. Patients who choose dental implants can continue to eat a normal diet.
In contrast, a patient who wears conventional dentures may be unable to eat many foods that are too crunchy or otherwise difficult to process often leading to a less healthy and less enjoyable diet.
A prosthodontist can use dental implants for patients with a variety of tooth loss scenarios. The devices can be used to support a crown to replace a single missing tooth or to anchor a dental bridge or even an entire upper or lower denture.
Adequate bone material is necessary for dental implant success, and the practitioner will thoroughly examine your jaw structure to determine whether implant placement is appropriate. The best case scenario is for patients to pursue dental implants as soon as possible after tooth loss occurs, thereby minimizing subsequent bone loss and the need for additional procedures such as bone grafting.
Patients who don’t want to give up their favorite foods after tooth loss should consider dental implants as a possible option. With over 25 years’ experience as a prosthodontist in North Dallas, Dr. Seal serves residents in the Highland Park and University Park areas, as well as the neighboring communities. Call 214.361.0883 today to schedule your informative consultation with Dr. Seal.