If you have chosen to explore dental implants as an option to replace your missing teeth, it’s important to learn more about how they work. Dental implants can actually replace teeth in a variety of ways. The advances in modern dentistry make it possible to replace one, multiple or all of your teeth with implants, the best tooth replacement solution available.
Dr. Drew Shulman is a dentist in NE Philadelphia that offers full service dental implants. He is a highly educated and passionate dentist who has helped many patients regain their confidence by restoring their smile with teeth implants. Dr. Shulman has experience placing every dental implant option. He utilizes implants to replace one tooth, multiple teeth, a whole arch of teeth, all teeth and to support a removable denture.
Replacing a single missing tooth with a dental implant
If you are only missing one tooth, your dentist will surgically place a single dental implant in the jaw bone. It will require about three to six months to heal properly. Then they will attach an abutment. A dental crown is then attached to the abutment to complete the restoration.
Even though this option may cost more up front than traditional options, it is actually the most cost effective solution over time. It also has a very high success rate and is the only option that will replace the root of the missing tooth. The dental crown will blend in seamlessly with the surrounding natural teeth. You will continue brushing and flossing your teeth like you normally do.
A dental bridge supported by dental implants
You can replace two or more consecutive teeth with implants. Instead of replacing each missing tooth with a single implant, Dr. Shulman will surgically place at least two implants on either side of the gap and they will support a dental bridge. This is an ideal replacement choice because implant supported bridges prevent bone loss and resemble natural teeth. This will enable normal chewing power and allow the patient to eat whatever they like because it replaces the tooth root.
A denture retained with dental implants
Dentures retained with implants are a great option for edentulous and partially edentulous patients. The two types of dentures available are bar-retained and ball-retained. A bar-retained denture requires two to five implants placed in the jaw bone. A thin metal bar is attached to them that will follow the natural curve of the jaw.
The denture will fit over the bar and clip into place. A ball-retained denture requires two or more implants with a ball-like attachment on each that will fit into sockets on the denture. With both options, the denture will need to be “unclipped” nightly and cared for. But this does eliminate the need for adhesives, they offer a lot more chewing power, and it is better for your oral health.
All-on-4 Implant Dentures
The All-on-4 dental implant procedure replaces an entire arch of teeth with only four dental implants. The procedure works by surgically placing the four implants into the jaw at a specific angle, optimizing the existing bone structure for long term results.
A patient can have any necessary teeth extracted, implants placed, and a temporary dental restoration attached all in one surgery. The dentist will permanently secure the denture into place and only they can remove it.
Mini Dental Implants
Dr. Shulman also offers mini dental implants for patients who lack sufficient bone density or have bone tissue issues. They are smaller than a regular implant, ranging from 1.8 to 3.3 mm in diameter compared to 3.4 to 5.8 mm wide. Mini implants are a great option for patients who may not have been a candidate for dental implants previously. This tooth replacement option is better for your overall health compared to dentures alone.
Are dental implants right for me?
When deciding how to replace your missing or damaged teeth, it is important to know what you qualify for and understand what the process entails. Dental implants are for anyone of any age that is missing one or more teeth. They require healthy bone and gum tissue for long-term results. Patients who have some bone loss and edentulous patients can still be candidates for implants but may require additional treatments such as a bone graft.
Schedule a Consultation for Dental Implants
To learn which option is best for you, schedule a dental implant consultation with Dr. Shulman today at his NE Philadelphia dentist office. You can contact the office of Drew A. Shulman DMD, MAGD by calling (855) 832-4034 to schedule an appointment.
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