When choosing a tooth replacement option to fill in the gaps in your smile, there are many different factors that you want to consider. One that is important to many people is how they look. Most people don’t want to walk around showing off an unnatural-looking smile. Fortunately, this is not an issue when you have dental implants. Continue reading to learn about the many cosmetic benefits of dental implants.
Maintains Jawbone Integrity
When someone is missing teeth, especially for a long period of time, they will experience bone loss. This occurs because the jawbone is no longer being stimulated by regular chewing since the root of the tooth is gone. Eventually, the bone will begin to be reabsorbed and shrink. This can be apparent by the appearance of sunken in cheeks and wrinkled lips. Since dental implants replace the natural roots of the teeth, this allows for the jawbone to get the stimulation it needs to stay strong and healthy.
Placement of Implants
With careful planning, your dentist will be able to place your implant directly into the jawbone in the most ideal location for osseointegration, or the fusion process, to take place. This will allow it to function more efficiently and it will increase its stability. It must also be placed in accordance with soft tissue deficiencies so there is enough place around the implant for an aesthetically pleasing result.
Customized Replacement Crowns
In order to make your smile appear as natural as possible, the crowns that are placed on the end of each implant are custom made. They will be choses by your dentist in order to match the exact size, shape, and color needed in order to blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile. This takes a lot of planning, as the new crown must fit properly in the empty space and should be the same length as the adjacent one.
Prosthetic Design
When adjacent teeth are being restored, crowns can be designed in order to reduce the volume of the space between the teeth. This is often done if there is a triangle space left between the teeth as a result of an inadequate papilla.
Soft Tissue Management
Sometimes, patients who are getting dental implants can have their gum tissue reconstructed to make their smile more aesthetically pleasing. This is an extra step for those who have suffered from gum recession in the past for one reason or another.
If you’re looking for a cosmetically appealing tooth replacement option, dental implants may be the answer. Ask your dentist if you would make a good candidate. This way, you can get on a path to restoring your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Nelson Y. Howard is a well experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than three decades. He earned his DDS from the UCLA School of Dentistry. He is an Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) and a member of the American Society for Dental Aesthetics. For more information on dental implants or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (858) 451-0550.