A full set of teeth can help preserve your oral health. When you lose even one tooth, it can make you vulnerable to a number of problems you were not previously exposed to. You may start to deal with disproportionate tooth wear and tear or jaw problems, because you have to change how you chew food. You carry a higher risk for additional tooth loss. You could even start to lose bone mass in your jaw. If you are missing teeth, a secure replacement can help offset these issues, and restore your oral health. One way to ensure that your prosthetic is stable is by receiving a dental implant. Implants operate like your tooth roots. They can secure a single replacement tooth, or you can use multiple implants to keep dentures in place. Your dentist can recommend an oral surgeon to place your dental implant, and then provide the restoration that brings back your complete smile.
A prosthetic tooth held in position by a dental implant can enjoy the type of security that your regular teeth receive from their roots. The implant is a titanium rod that is planted into your empty tooth socket. Because the material is biocompatible, your jawbone will directly fuse to it, and keep it in position. The prosthetic tooth is secured atop the implant – your replacement is designed to look like a natural tooth. These implants keep your prosthetic in place, as well as help keep your jawbone healthy.
With a sequence of dental implants, you can actually keep your dentures held in their proper position. Once your implants are in place, your dentist can attach a set of dentures to the implants.