Dental Implants
Nearly 70% of middle aged Americans are missing at least 1 tooth due to an accident, decay, or gum disease. The teeth are designed to work together to help us chew, smile and speak. When one or more teeth are lost the system begins to be unbalanced and begins to break down. Teeth shift to partially fill gaps left by missing teeth, teeth become worn unevenly because of overuse, the jaw joint and muscles can also become affected.
There are 3 components to a dental implant. The implant is a titanium screw that is placed in the jaw bone. The implant has a special surface treatment that allows the bone to grow around and into the implant surface. This natural remodeling process solidifies the implant into the bone and allows it to function similarly to a natural tooth root. The second component is the abutment, which is a connection between the implant and the crown. The abutment is customized to properly align the implant crown with the other teeth. The final component is the crown which is similar to a regular cap or crown that a dentist would place on a natural tooth.
The crown and abutment are screwed into the implant. The most common compilation with regard to implants is a loosened screw. The crown will feel loose, but won’t come off. This can be disconcerting to the patient, but we are able to tighten the screw down or replace the screw very easily. The second most common complication is soreness of the opposing teeth. Implants, unlike natural teeth are connected directly into the bone and don’t have a soft ligament around them. Consequently, if the bite isn’t adjusted properly or if the teeth shift the bite can be heavy on the teeth opposing the implant. Once we have completed an implant restoration we recommend that each patient have a custom night guard made to protect their teeth and the implant as well as to prevent movement of the teeth.
Dental Implants
Dental Implants, as we know them today, originated in the 1950’s. Since that time incremental advances have given us a reliable, predictable, long lasting solution for tooth replacement. Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or an entire set of teeth. They are the most natural in appearance, feel, and function to our natural teeth.
What’s Involved?
Placement of the implant: The dentist surgically places the implant into the jawbone. There may be some swelling and or tenderness after the surgery, so pain medication is usually prescribed. Your dentist may recommend a soft diet during the healing process.
The healing process: What makes an implant so strong is that the bone actually grows around it and holds it in place. This process takes time. Usually patients must wait about 4 months before replacement teeth can be fixed to the implant.
Replacing your missing tooth or teeth: The dentist will make a custom crown or bridge to fit over your implants. The new teeth are porcelain and have the look, feel, and function of natural teeth.
Fixed Bridge
Fixed Bridges are another option for replacing teeth. A bridge is made in the same way as a dental crown and are not removable. However, a bridge has a minimum of 3 crowns that are made in a single piece. Bridges require a remaining tooth on either side of the space where a tooth was lost. Much of the enamel surface of the teeth on either side of the gap is removed to accommodate the bridge. Also, because each of the crowns are constructed in a single piece you can’t floss without threading the floss under the bridge.
How is a bridge placed?
Bridge Preparation: Enamel is removed from the teeth on either side of the gap to allow space for the crown to fit over the teeth. A mold is made of the prepared teeth and sent to a lab. A temporary bridge is fabricated to allow for normal chewing until the final bridge comes back from the laboratory.
Bridge Seating: The final bridge is cemented to the teeth on either side of the gap. Once installed, it can be difficult to distinguish the bridged teeth from the natural ones. However, the bridge requires special care because it is harder to clean and as a result the supporting teeth are at increased risk of decay.
Removable Partial Denture
Removable Partial Denture are the third option for replacing missing teeth. As the name implies they are removable and must be removed and cleaned after each meal and during sleep. If a person is missing multiple teeth a removable partial denture can be a very economical way to replace them. The removable partial denture is the only option that rests on the tissue. As a result sores can develop. Where teeth are losts the bone atrophies and the pressure of a removable partial denture can accelerate this loss of bone. Compared with nothing though, a removable partial denture will maintain the position and health of the remaining teeth and restore the function of the missing teeth.
How is a removable partial denture made?
Small groves are made in some of the remaining teeth to help hold in the removable partial denture. A mold is taken and sent to the laboratory.
A wax mock up is made and tried it. This step allows for any adjustments in the fit or position of the acrylic teeth.
A final removable partial denture is fabricated with white acrylic teeth and pink acrylic to match the color of the gums a metal framework supports the acrylic and attaches the removable partial denture to the remaining teeth.