If you’re among the 120 million Americans missing one or more teeth, you know how much it can impact your smile, eating abilities, and oral health. At Parleys Creek Dental, our skilled dentist, Dr. Clinton Sorensen, offers several high-quality options for replacing missing teeth – including state-of-the-art dental implants in Salt Lake City, UT.
While traditional tooth replacements like dentures and bridges are common, dental implants have become the gold standard for many patients and dental professionals. Here’s a look at how implants compare to other tooth replacement choices to help you decide which solution is best for your needs.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. The implants are then capped with natural-looking dental crowns to replace missing teeth. We can also use implants to secure multi-tooth replacements like implant-supported bridges or hybrid dentures.
Because implants integrate directly into the bone, they provide unmatched stability, durability, and chewing power compared to other options. Dental implants can easily last 25 years or even a lifetime with proper care.
Dental Implants vs. Dentures
For many years, conventional dentures were the only solution for replacing an entire arch of missing teeth. While they restore a smile’s appearance and some chewing function, restorative dentures have several drawbacks:
- Messy adhesives are required to help keep them in place
- Food restrictions due to reduced chewing power
- Gradual bone loss in the jaw from lack of stimulation
- Dentures may slip or click when eating or speaking
- Need to be relined or replaced periodically
Implant-supported dentures and hybrid prosthetics solve many of these issues by using strategically placed implants to anchor the denture base. This allows optimal biting force and stability without adhesives or excessive bone deterioration over time. Many patients find implant dentures more comfortable, secure, and natural-feeling than traditional dentures.
Dental Implants vs. Bridges
A traditional dental bridge uses crowns on adjacent natural teeth to “bridge” the gap and support the replacement tooth. While bridges can effectively restore function and appearance, they require permanently altering healthy teeth, which is irreversible.
Implants, on the other hand, replace each missing tooth individually without impacting the remaining teeth. Bridges also have a higher decay rate and deterioration over time since it’s harder for patients to clean beneath the bridgework.
An implant-supported bridge provides a more stable solution for patients missing multiple teeth in a row than a conventional bridge. Two to three strategically placed implants can anchor a custom bridge prosthetic, distributing biting forces and reducing the load on remaining natural teeth.
The Dental Implant Process
You may envision a long, complicated process for getting dental implants. The truth is, thanks to modern techniques and technology, most patients are surprised by how easy and comfortable the treatment is.
The process begins with a consultation and CT scan with Dr. Sorensen to ensure adequate jawbone density for implants. If needed, a bone grafting procedure rebuilds sufficient bone volume.
Next, a minor surgical procedure is performed to place the titanium implant posts into the jaw precisely. Over the following weeks, the bone tissue fuses with the implant surface in osseointegration. This stage creates an incredibly secure and lasting foundation for the replacement teeth.
Finally, connector abutments are attached to the implants and topped with custom-crafted dental crowns, bridges, or dentures. With proper self-care and regular checkups, you can enjoy your new teeth for years!
Advantages of Dental Implants
While implants require more upfront investment in time and cost, they offer numerous advantages over other tooth replacement options:
- Natural look, feel, and function, restoring up to 90% chewing power
- A permanent solution that integrates with your mouth’s anatomy
- No special adhesives or cleaning are required
- Prevents deterioration of the jawbone
- Adaptable to replace any number of teeth
Implants are tough to beat for patients who want a tooth replacement as close to nature’s design as possible. Their biocompatible fit and reliable durability have made them a top choice for comprehensive tooth restoration.
Experience Dental Implants in Salt Lake City
If you’re weighing your options for replacing missing teeth, look no further than the outstanding implant dentistry offered by Dr. Clinton Sorensen at Parleys Creek Dental in Salt Lake City, UT. With decades of experience and a commitment to using the latest techniques, our trusted team ensures implants look, fit, and function as nature intended. We’re here to walk you through the process step-by-step for exceptional results you’ll love.Contact us today to schedule your dental implant consultation! We can’t wait to explore your tooth replacement options and help you regain a complete, healthy smile.