Missing just a single tooth can cause problems for your entire smile. A small gap in your oral cavity may seem insignificant, but it can lead to further loss in the future and potentially weaken your facial structures. To avoid these concerns, consider getting replacements with implants with our team at Cerritos Dental Surgery in California. These can be used for many forms of prosthetics and help maintain your appearance.

How Implants Compare To Other Prosthetics

There are many ways that your missing teeth can be replaced. The prosthetic chosen will depend on the severity of the loss, your oral health, and your specific needs. Dental bridges are one option that may be able to replace up to three missing teeth in the same row. This is a permanent fixture that is held in place by the surrounding teeth. For patients who have gaps throughout their smile in different places, dentures may be used instead. These can be full or partial depending on your needs. While these replacement options are helpful, they only mimic the visible part of your missing teeth and not the root. The root helps keep the jaw strong and supports other teeth. Without it, your jawbone can weaken, and chewing can become difficult.

How You Can Replace The Entire Structure

Dental implants are a prosthetic option that can replace the entire structure of your missing tooth. They can be used to replace one or several of your pearly whites. Essentially, there are three parts to this method. The post, which is inserted into the jawbone, creates a sturdy base for the replacement. Then the abutment piece is added, which connects the post to the crown. The crown is the final part and the piece that blends in with your smile.

If you have severe tooth loss, there is the option of all-on-four implants. Posts will be inserted throughout the jawbone to support your set of dentures. This method is beneficial because it can help keep your facial structure healthy, improve your chewing ability, and provide you with a complete smile.

Starting The Process

Before you can receive your implants, you will need to have a consultation with your dentist. It’s important that your gums, jaw, and remaining teeth are healthy. After this initial appointment, your dentist will discuss your treatment plan. This process can take several months to complete, so it is critical that you understand each step. Oral surgery will be required to insert the post and then there will be a resting period before adding the abutment and crown pieces. Once you have received your permanent prosthetic, it will last for many years with proper care.

Talk To Our Team About Your Options

To schedule a consultation for implants with Cerritos Dental Surgery in California call 562-584-4082 today.