A growing number of adults are choosing to replace missing natural teeth with Dental Implants. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), around 3 million Americans have dental implants and is growing by approximately 500,000 people annually.
The advantages of dental implants are rapidly becoming more apparent to adults seeking to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are safe, dependable, look and feel like natural teeth and are designed to last your lifetime.
Dental implants also bring many advantages to people who have been struggling with the frustrations of wearing a denture or partial denture. These include:
Helping to protect adjacent teeth: Replacing a lost tooth (or teeth) keeps the teeth on either side and the one above (or below) in proper position. This prevents neighboring teeth from being able to tilt or turn, which compromises the alignment of the bite. When this occurs, upper and lower teeth can “hit” one another when biting or speaking. This can result in chips, fractures, cracks and breaks.
Providing a stable, secure ability to bite and chew: With the implanted portion of dental implants held by the jaw bone (as with natural teeth), replacement teeth attached to implants restore the ability to bite and chew foods.
Being designed to last a lifetime: The implanted portion of dental implants is made of titanium, a biological-compatible metal used in many implants in the body. The jaw bone grows around it, securing it as part of the bone’s structure. With proper care, its lifespan can be a lifetime. Too, unlike other tooth replacement options, an implant will not decay, need a root canal or break.
An exceptional value: Because dental implants are deemed “elective” by insurance companies, there is typically little or no coverage. Thus, the costs are “out of pocket” and are generally an upfront expense. Although this can make other tooth replacement options seem like better deals, over time, dental implants are typically a far better investment. There are also other misconceptions about the costs of dental implants.
For example, some people assume that a dental implant will be needed for each missing tooth. For many cases, only one or two implants may be needed to support a bridge of several teeth. For people who are missing a full arch of teeth, only 6 or 8 strategically-placed implants can often provide dependable support.
Dental Implants have one of the highest implant-in-bone success rates (including that of knees and hip joints). There are nearly 40 types of dental implant systems, each designed to accommodate specific needs. A qualified, experienced dentist can determine the type that will work best for you. (Learn more about dental implants at: DrBarbatDentalImplants)
For example, some implant systems are designed to support non-removable teeth while others may support teeth that are detachable for cleaning. Some implants support one or several teeth while others are designed for placement in minimum bone mass.
For people who require a full arch of teeth, there are two types – Fixed and Removable. The difference is:
In the FIXED option, replacement teeth are secured directly to the implants rather than adhered to a gum-colored base. For a permanently-anchored dental implant bridge, several dental implants are placed to form a good foundation. Abutments (posts secured in the implant’s core) are attached to the implants and the bridge is fitted in place.
A REMOVABLE option holds the replacement teeth in a gum-colored base. This is an overdenture, which involves placing two or more dental implants that will be used as a secure foundation to attach the prosthesis. For the overdenture, either “locator” abutments, ball abutments or a small bar between the abutments are used. The prosthesis is fitted with corresponding attachment components underneath.
With both options, the implants provide a strong foundation to support the prosthesis and hold it securely in place.
In addition to offering dental implants, our Shelby Township dental office offers a complete dental care environment. Our office features some of the industry’s most advanced imaging and scanning technology, which help to minimize treatment, speed healing, and enhance comfort. (Learn more at: DrBarbatTechnology)
Our Macomb County dental office also enjoys a reputation for making patient comfort a priority at every visit. In addition to numerous comfort features, we offer oral and I.V. sedation (“twilight sleep”). Learn more at: DrBarbatSedation
We strive to make sure each patient understands their treatment and all options available that coincide with their needs and goals. If you’ve considered Dental Implants, call 586-739-2155 to arrange a free, no obligation consultation. Or, simply tap HERE for an online request.
During this time, we’ll discuss the implant types that are best suited for your needs and goals and anticipated costs. We can also have our Financial Coordinator explain various payment plans that are interest-free with no down payment required.
We would also like you to get to know our beautiful dental office at: DrBarbatOfficeTour.
Please allow me to introduce myself through a brief video at: MeetDrBarbat
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Our office is open and accepting new patients! Please send us an email using the form below or please call us at 586-739-2155.