Shocking news in the dental world today: as it turns out, that old joke about the Brits having terrible teeth isn’t as true as we thought. In fact, according to a recent analysis of dental surveys, The British Medical Journal concluded that we Americans actually have more missing teeth than our neighbors across the pond. Looks like we’ve got some crow to eat.
In the meantime, there’s probably never been a better time to talk about completing your smile with dental implants in Northfield MA. At Bagley Goodwin & Hrinda, we’re the experts in replacing teeth with this stable, health-promoting option — keep reading to learn more.
Dental Implants Are a Complete Tooth Replacement
For Northfield patients who are missing one or more teeth, our team knows there’s no better option in tooth replacement than dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
Tiny posts made of titanium, dental implants are prosthetic roots that attach securely to a new tooth replacement. A single implant is surgically placed into the space left by each missing tooth, and then given the time needed for the jawbone to fuse with the titanium — about six months. Once that process (called osseointegration) has taken place, the dental implants are super sturdy and ready to receive the new teeth.
What Sets Dental Implants Apart from Other Options?
It’s simple: nothing else replaces the missing tooth and its root like dental implants. Other options, like fixed bridges or non-implant supported dentures, only take care of the visible portion of the tooth. But without a root, the jawbone degenerates and causes even more tooth loss over time.
Dental implants not only provide a sturdier tooth replacement, but they also promote better oral health for a lifetime.
Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Good candidates for dental implants are patients who are missing one or more teeth and are in good oral and overall health. Those suffering from gum disease or conditions that affect the immune system, like diabetes, may not benefit from dental implants.
Additionally, the best candidates have plenty of existing jawbone. Sometimes, missing teeth have already caused the jawbone to degenerate and bone grafting is necessary. Other times, so much disintegration has occurred that traditional dental implants are not an option at all.
Find Out If Dental Implants Are Right for You in 2016
All jokes about English versus American teeth aside, we want to help everyone in Massachusetts enjoy complete, beautiful smiles. The only way to confirm that you’re a good candidate for dental implants is to schedule your appointment with the experts at Bagley Goodwin & Hrinda. Let us know you’re interested in tooth replacement and we’ll put you on the road to the complete, beautiful smile you deserve. Book your appointment today!