Tooth implants are frequently suggested by dentists as being the best treatment option for missing teeth. The other possible alternatives to dental implants in Massapequa are dentures, which ride on the gums, or bridges that relay on adjacent teeth for support.
Almost 70% of Americans between the ages of 33 and 45 have lost one or more teeth due to an accident, unsuccessful root canal surgery or the effects of gum disease. By the age of 74, over 25% have lost all their teeth.
A little as twenty years ago, these people would have had to choose between removable dentures or a fixed bridge to restore their missing tooth or teeth. Neither of these solutions was perfect, as they each posed their own additional problems:
* Removable dentures would often slip or cause embarrassing clicking noises
* Fixed bridges often affected the healthy teeth that relied on for support
For these and other reasons, fixed bridges and removable dentures usually needed replacing every ten to 15 years.
Today, the options have increased, now the patient has the choice of replacing a missing tooth or teeth with individual implants, which look like and act like a real tooth. Dental implants Massapequa do not rely on adjacent teeth nor do they rest on the gums; they are permanently anchored into the jaw bone.
The implant consists of a titanium peg, which the surgeon fixes into the jawbone, an abutment and a crown which fits on the titanium implant. The implant never needs to be removed, does not slip and does not make noises, which can be an embarrassment. Most of the first implants that were used close to 20 years ago are still in service, with good oral hygiene it is expected that they will last the lifetime of the wearer.
The anatomy of the dental implants in Massapequa
The implant which replaces a single tooth consists of the titanium peg, which is imbedded into the jawbone, an abutment which sits on that portion of the peg which protrudes above the gum line and a crown which is fitted on the abutment. This arrangement cannot be differentiated from the natural tooth it replaces; the color and shape are identical.
A permanent bridge requires that the abutting teeth be cut down to accept the bridge, weakening the teeth and leading to early failure. Within five to seven years, almost 30% of the teeth abutting the bridge need repair.
For people who have several missing teeth, implants can still be of benefit. The oral surgeon will plant two or more implants in the jaw which will act as a stable support and lock for dentures. This eliminates bone loss, which is a significant issue with conventional gum supported dentures.
Dental implants in Massapequa are one of the treatments available at Ultimate Dentistry. Once the work is completed, your teeth and smile will look perfectly natural.
