Tooth loss is a common health problem for millions of Americans. According to the American College of Prosthodontists, over 170 million American adults are missing at least one tooth and approximately 40 million are missing all of their natural teeth.
Even partial tooth loss can have a significant impact on your oral and general health, affecting everything from your nutrition and risk of gum disease to your ability to speak clearly and confidently participate in social and professional events.
At EZ Dental Clinic, our team of dentists and dental professionals offers a range of general and cosmetic dentistry services at our office in Bellevue, Washington.
There have never been more options available to replace missing teeth, whether you’re missing one, a few, or all of your natural teeth. From dentures to dental implants, there are several options to choose from depending on your health and lifestyle.
Implant-supported dentures offer all the benefits of traditional dentures with the added security and stability of implants, so you don’t have to worry about applying adhesives or getting constant adjustments to make sure your dentures continue to fit properly.
Full or partial dentures are typically held in place by two to four dental implants (although some people may require more). Implant-supported dentures are either permanent, or can be removed for cleaning (also known as snap-in dentures).
Implants are surgically placed in the jaw and are the prosthetic equivalent of the root of a tooth. Once in place, the implant fuses with the surrounding bone tissue under your gums to secure it in place, so you need to have sufficient bone density to support the implant. A bone graft may be possible in some situations to support the implant.
In general, candidates for dental implants need to be in good general health and not have underlying oral health issues like gum disease. Dental implants are not recommended for people with weak or suppressed immune systems. Implants have a high success rate, but you need to commit to thorough oral hygiene practices at home, avoiding tobacco, and getting regular follow-up and preventive dental care as needed.
It’s never too late to invest in and improve your smile and oral health. Whether you’ve recently lost one or more teeth or have been living with tooth loss for years, there are many options available to help you get back on track. Our team of dentists provides a comprehensive exam and reviews your medical history in order to recommend the best treatment for your needs and lifestyle.
For more information about implant-supported dentures and to find out if you’re a good candidate, contact us today to schedule an appointment at our office in Bellevue, Washington.
