As a child, losing your front teeth is a rite of passage, and one that many children look forward to. After all, it means you’re growing up, and in many cases getting a valuable visit from the tooth fairy! But as an adult, it’s not so precious. In fact, for most people it’s downright embarrassing. But what can be done? Missing just one or only a few front teeth isn’t enough for a full denture, and partial dentures are only a temporary solution. Enter dental implants. These durable, lifelike prosthetics are the only permanent tooth replacement option available today and can last a lifetime with proper care. But can you use them for front teeth? Here’s a closer look at these natural-looking restorations, and who they can help!
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are the world’s first permanent tooth replacement option. They attach to the jawbone via a metal post that is inserted into the jawbone. As it heals, it fuses with the surrounding tissue through the process of osseointegration. Dental implants are available in single, bridge, and denture form, depending on how many teeth you need replaced. Best of all, because they’re permanent, they provide full biteforce, look and feel natural, and you’ll never need to worry about removing them for cleaning or them slipping out of place when you eat or speak.
Can Dental Implants Replace Front Teeth?
The great news about dental implants is that they’re extremely versatile, too. In fact, you can use them to replace any teeth along an arch, including in the back, sides, or front of the mouth. For patients with noticeable gaps in their smile, they can permanently complete the arch, protecting the surrounding teeth while boosting their confidence.
Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
While it’s true that dental implants can go anywhere along the arch, first you’ll need to be able to qualify for treatment. This means you must have sufficient jawbone density, no present oral health problems like untreated gum disease, and no cavities or decay on surrounding teeth. If you do have any of these issues, it’s important to address them first to give your new prosthetics the best possible odds for survival. Under ideal circumstances, your dental implants have a 95 percent success rate. However, poor jawbone density and a condition called peri-implantitis that is similar to gum disease are among the leading causes of failure.
If you are missing any teeth anywhere in your mouth and would like a permanent replacement solution, dental implants could be the answer. To learn more about this treatment, and to see if you’re a good candidate, schedule a consultation with your dentist today!
About Dr. Lopez
Dr. Gilberto Lopez earned his undergraduate degree and dental degree from the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith, and is a current, active member of the American Dental Association, Arkansas State Dental Association, and the River Valley Dental Association. He is proud to offer dental implants to replace lost teeth anywhere in your smile. To learn more about dental implants and to see if you’re a good candidate for treatment at New Smile Dental, visit our website or call us today at 479-434-4277.