Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth because of their durability and appealing aesthetics. If you have missing teeth, you may be wondering if dental implants are the right choice for you. If you would like to know more, check out these commonly asked questions about dental implants and the procedure.

1. How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants consist of multiple parts:

• The titanium implant screw
• The abutment
• The crown

During treatment, the dentist places the titanium implant screw in the jawbone, and the area is left to heal. Gum tissue regrows, covering the implant, and inside the jawbone, the bone fuses to the titanium, securing the implant to the jawbone. This is the reason dental implants are durable and popular.

Once the area fully heals, the dentist cuts open the gums and attaches the abutment, which holds the crown: the portion of the implant that looks like natural tooth tissue. You may need to replace the crown at some point, depending on wear and tear and damage.

2. What Types of Dental Implants Exist?

There are multiple dental implant options, including:

• Single implants
• Dental bridge implants
• Implant dentures

A single implant replaces one tooth, but a dental bridge implant replaces multiple missing teeth. Unfortunately, like a traditional bridge, you'll need to clean under the bridge implant.

If you have traditional dentures but hate the disadvantages, ask about implant dentures. Unlike single implants and dental bridge implants, they are removable. However, the implants have snaps that secure the denture plates, so they won't move or fall out.

3. What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Dental implants have many benefits. First, since they replace missing teeth, they prevent teeth from shifting to fill in the gap from the lost tooth/teeth. Since they use the jawbone for support, they are also strong, but more importantly, they don't put excess wear and tear on other teeth like traditional bridges.

Since bone fuses to the dental implant, it ensures the jawbone remains stimulated, preventing bone loss and atrophy. When your jawbone shrinks, it increases the risk of future tooth loss, and it can impact the entire shape of your face. By keeping the jawbone strong, the implant also prevents the facial sinuses from falling.

If you have missing teeth and want a durable option, consider dental implants. They replace teeth without relying on other teeth, and they don't slip and slide like traditional dentures. Contact your dentist for more information about dental implants.