If you’re missing some teeth, you’re far from alone. In fact, you’re one of over 100 million North Americans with a similar problem. Some lack but a single tooth; others are completely edentulous, without teeth.
Dentures are generally the first thing considered in connection with tooth loss. However, over time a jawbone lacking natural teeth will shrink.
For many patients, dental implants can be almost the same as having their natural teeth back again. That’s because instead of being a removable device inside the mouth, implants are bridges that are permanently anchored into the jaw itself. The procedure is surgical, yes, but usually performed under local anesthesia.
The key to a successful implant is something we call osseo-integration, or the meshing together of implant and bone. Good candidates for dental implants need jawbone ridges that are in good shape and healthy oral tissues. Then, when the implant device is inserted, a chemical and mechanical bond is formed. The jawbone actually grows into the implant.
That’s a highly simplified discussion of an extremely complex and technical procedure.
For more details on our implant policy and procedures, contact our office at 661-251-0700. Mark A. Poitras, DDS practices Cosmetic and Sedation Dentistry at 19310 Avenue of the Oaks, Santa Clarita, CA 91321.