Nothing replaces a healthy set of teeth, but when disease or an accident ends in tooth loss, it helps to know that there are options for restoring your smile. There is an alternative to wearing dentures: dental implants. More patients are choosing dentals implants to replace a single tooth, several teeth, or to even support a full set of dentures.
Implants are surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw where they act as a sturdy anchor for replacement teeth. An implant can stabilize your bite and help prevent problems with the jaw. Dental implants may be used to support a bridge when several teeth are missing. If you are missing all of your teeth, an implant-supported denture can replace the missing teeth and some of the tooth roots. Because the implants integrate with the jawbone, an implant-supported denture tends to be comfortable and stable, allowing you to bite and chew naturally.
Implants, however, are not an option for everyone. You must be in good gerenal health with healthy gums and jawbone. Chronic illnesses also play a part in your ability to have an implant. Implants require surgery, so recovery takes a little bit longer. Plus, the cost is higher than that of alternative procedures. Talk with your dentist to see if you are a candidate for dental implants.
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