If you are missing one or several teeth, you are probably looking into long-term options to alleviate this condition.
If you are in the Braintree, MA, area, Dr. George Salem and Associates, PC, might be a helpful place to start.
One option that is becoming more and more prevalent is permanent dental implants.
A dental implant is a replacement treatment option in which a hole is drilled into the jawbone and a titanium implant is integrated into the bone tissue; a prosthetic crown is then attached to the implant. The permanent dental implant procedure can be done for one or more teeth.
According to the Academy of Osseointegration, a professional dental organization dedicated to education and advancement of Osseointegration Dentistry, dental implants are not only a very practical tooth replacement solution, but data suggests dental implants seem to be the longest-lasting tooth replacement procedure. In addition to improved ability to chew and speak more clearly, dental implants instantly offer more stability than standard, loose fitting dentures.
The AAO lists the following as some of the long-term advantages of dental implants:
- Dental implants take the pressure off remaining teeth by offering independent support and retention to crowns, bridgework and overdentures
- Dental implants preserve natural tooth tissue by avoiding the need to cut down adjacent teeth for conventional bridgework
- Dental implants preserve existing bone structure
- Dental implants reduce bone deterioration
- Dental implants reduce the need for subsequent restorative treatments for remaining/adjacent teeth
There are some issues to think about, however. For one, dental implants are usually considered cosmetic procedures by many insurance companies, which means some dental insurance policies will not cover the procedure. Another point to remember is that dental implants are done in more than one procedure over a period of time, often as lengthy as several months. This is because the bone tissue must completely heal before the crown can be installed. Finally, in a very small percentage of procedures, some complications can occur.
Your dentist can help you decide what’s right for you. If you are in the Braintree, MA, area, and you are looking for dental services, call the offices of Dr. George Salem and Associates, PC at (781) 613-8766 or visit the website at www.drgeorgesalem.com.