When a tooth is lost the specialized bony process that houses the tooth begins to
resorb due to lack of stimulation. This causes a decrease in width and height of
the bone in the area the tooth is lost. Neighboring teeth and opposing teeth begin
to move into the space. This causes food lodgment, subsequent decay, gum disease
and abnormal forces being transmitted to teeth leading to fracture of cusps which
may necessitate root canal treatment or extraction. Loss of teeth can also cause
the cheek and lips to collapse giving an aged look.
The consequences of tooth loss can be prevented by replacing the lost tooth in a
timely manner. Although there are several options to replace a missing tooth the
number one choice for replacing lost teeth are dental implants. Implants are tiny
titanium screws or posts that are surgically placed in the bone. Once integrated
into bone they act like roots onto which small posts are attached which protrude
through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors to the replacement teeth. Implants
maintain the bone height by stimulation and prevents unnecessary trimming of adjoining
teeth for bridge placement. Since implants are titanium posts there is no chance
for decay on implants. Implants can service you for several years with regular professional
cleaning and proper home care.
Many people who are missing a single tooth opt for a fixed bridge; but a bridge
may require the cutting down of healthy, adjacent teeth that may or may not need
to be restored in the future. Then there is the additional cost of possibly having
to replace the bridge once, twice or more over the course of a lifetime due to decay
or gum problems affecting the anchor teeth.
Another option to replace missing teeth is a removable partial denture or complete
denture depending on the number of teeth missing. The chewing efficiency with a
denture is reduced to more than half of that of natural teeth. The teeth that support
the partial denture are weakened due to the excessive loads acting on them and eventually
are lost. The denture rests on the gum causing tissue abrasion and bone loss. Removable
dentures may slip or cause embarrassing clicking sounds while eating or speaking.
Studies show that within five to seven years there is a failure rate of up to 30%
in teeth located next to a fixed bridge or removable partial denture.
Who is a candidate for Implants?
Anyone who is missing one or several teeth is a candidate for implants. With the
exception of growing children, dental implants are the solution of choice for people
of all ages, even those with the following health concerns:
Existing Medical Conditions: If you can have routine dental treatment,
you can generally have an implant placed. While precautions are advisable for certain
conditions, patients with such chronic diseases as high blood pressure and diabetes
are usually successful candidates for dental implant treatment.
Gum Disease or Problem Teeth: Almost all implants placed in patients
who have lost their teeth to periodontal disease or decay has been successful.
Currently Wearing Partials or Dentures: Implants can replace removable
bridges or dentures, or they can be used to stabilize and secure the denture, making
it much more comfortable.
Smokers: Although smoking lowers the success rate of implants,
it doesn't eliminate the possibility of getting them.
Bone Loss: Bone loss is not uncommon for people who have lost teeth
or had periodontal disease. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained and experienced
in grafting bone to safely and permanently secure the implant.
Implant tooth replacement in children is usually deferred until their jaw growth
is complete. There are, however, some instances when a dental implant may be appropriate,
such as when it is part of the child's orthodontic treatment plan. Your family dentist
or orthodontist can guide you in this instance.
Dental Implant placement usually takes two surgical appointments:
- During the first surgical appointment the implant site is prepared to receive the
implant following strict aseptic procedures. The selected size of the implant is
placed in the prepared site. The gum tissue is sutured over the implant. The implant
takes 4- 6 months to fuse with the bone.
- During the second surgical appointment the implant is uncovered and the appropriate
post is attached to which the replacement tooth is anchored. An impression of the
post is taken and sent to the lab for the fabrication of the implant crown. During
this time a temporary crown is placed. Once the final crown is back it is cemented
with permanent cement.