Tooth ReplacementThe Woodlands, TX
Many people mistakenly believe that missing teeth are just a matter of aesthetics. In reality, they can easily impede the overall function and health of the mouth. If you have any teeth that are missing or deteriorating, immediate tooth replacement is necessary.
Tooth replacement is available at Montgomery County Periodontal Associates in The Woodlands and the surrounding area. You can prevent your teeth from doing any further damage. Call us today at 281-404-7548 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
The Impact of Missing Teeth
As mentioned above, tooth replacement is more than just an aesthetic issue. According to Healthline, teeth are "designed to work together" — meaning that having one or more missing teeth can easily impede talking and eating in addition to causing eventual health issues in the future. For example, missing teeth may cause some patients to chew only on one side of the mouth or eat at a slower pace, which affects the jaw and facial muscles.
Of course, missing teeth also often have an obvious aesthetic effect — even if they are not in a visible area. It is not uncommon for one's bite to change to compensate for the lost teeth, causing the mouth and teeth to shift. In turn, patients may experience difficulty chewing, tooth grinding, and tooth sensitivity.
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Dental Implants for Tooth Replacement
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that work to anchor fixed or removable replacement teeth designed to match the natural teeth. Compared to other artificial teeth options, dental implants look, feel, and function the most like natural teeth. This is because they are designed to become permanent by fusing with bone.
This also makes them more comfortable and better for speech and eating, as they remain affixed entirely in place. Many patients also find that dental implants improve their self-esteem as they have the effect of restoring their natural smiles. Additionally, as it is unnecessary to reduce other teeth to place dental implants, more of the natural teeth are left intact.
Implant Supported Dentures for Tooth Replacement
As the name suggests, implant supported dentures are a hybrid of dental implants and dentures. These dentures are affixed in the mouth, typically using four to six titanium implants. It usually takes three to six months for the implants to fuse with the jawbone's tissue, a process known as osseointegration.
After osseointegration has taken place, Dr. Mason affixes the dentures to the implants, making them immovable without professional interference. There are several benefits to implant supported dentures compared to regular dentures. For one, they look and feel more natural in the patient's mouth, and there is no adjustment period. Additionally, patients can care for them as they would their natural teeth.
Single Tooth Implant for Tooth Replacement
A dental implant can also be used to replace a single tooth. This has several advantages over other tooth replacement options, such as a dental bridge. As mentioned earlier, dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth — more than dental bridges. Additionally, they do not require the patient to compromise the neighboring teeth. In contrast, dental bridges require that the surrounding teeth be ground down for support.
Dental implants also act as replacement tooth roots, meaning they will do a better job preserving the bone. With dental bridges, there is a risk that some of the bone previously surrounding the tooth will begin to deteriorate, or resorb. Thanks to osseointegration, dental implants fuse with the jawbone.
All on 4 for Tooth Replacement
Dental implants are often a multi-visit procedure. Patients looking for immediate relief may want to consider All on 4 treatment, which allows for a fixed, full-arch rehabilitation on the day of surgery. In comparison, it may take several months for patients' dental implants to undergo the necessary osseointegration to attach to the dental implants.
Furthermore, unlike other teeth replacement options, All-on-4 does not require many implants or bone grafts. The treatment is possible even for those with little to no teeth, and 95% of patients report satisfaction with the results. Over 150,000 patients have been treated with All-on-4 worldwide, with high survival rates.
Call Us Today
Missing teeth can affect more than just your smile. We at Montgomery County Periodontal Associates can help. Call us today at 281-404-7548 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Frequently Asked Questions
My teeth are deteriorating. Is it time to replace them?
The answer varies on a case-by-case basis. However, in general, it is always best to preserve your teeth whenever possible. Dr. Mason can determine what is best for you in a one-on-one consultation.
How many implants are used for All on 4?
As the name implies, All on 4 treatment is usually done on four implants. However, up to six to eight implants may be necessary, depending on how strongly it must be affixed.
How is a single tooth implant placed?
Dr. Mason will first place the implant into the jaw. Then, he will allow two to six months for osseointegration to take place. Once this process is complete, the implant has formed a viable anchor for the artificial tooth. You may wear a temporary tooth replacement option over the implant site during the osseointegration period. Afterward, Dr. mason will create a crown attached to an abutment and affix it to the implant.
What is the difference between implant supported dentures and traditional dentures?
Traditional dentures are removable and rest on the gums. In contrast, implant supported dentures are fixed and anchored into place. As such, implant supported dentures have a significantly smaller chance of moving around in the mouth and causing discomfort.
What should I do to heal after getting my dental implants placed?
Dr. Mason will give you detailed post-operative instructions to follow. These instructions may recommend taking over-the-counter painkillers for any discomfort and taking prophylactic antibiotics. To speed up healing, you should regularly rinse out the mouth with a warm saltwater solution to kill germs, and avoid any hot, crunchy, or spicy foods for the first 10 days after the procedure.
Contact Us
Montgomery County Periodontal Associates is located at 1001 Medical Plaza Dr Ste 110 The Woodlands, TX 77380.
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