Dental Implants: Tooth Replacement Solution (2024)

FAQs

Dental Implants: Tooth Replacement Solution? ›

Dental implants (sometimes called tooth implants) are your best long-term solution for missing teeth because they bond with your healthy bone, providing a sturdy base for a dental crown. Together, all three components function just like your natural tooth.

Dental implants are anchored in your jaw bone just like natural teeth. Over time they will help preserve the jaw bone and significantly reduce bone resorption. Replacing missing teeth with implants allow you to chew your food better and speak more clearly.

The most affordable tooth replacement solution is dentures. This is because they take the least amount of time to create. There is no surgery and no dental crowns to place.

Water Flosser – A water flosser is an electric device that uses a stream of water to remove plaque from between your teeth. Water flossers are especially beneficial for people with dental implants because they massage the gums and help remove any food particles or debris that might be lodged in hard-to-reach places.

Dental implants are often considered the best option, as they are permanently anchored into the jaw and can typically last a lifetime with proper smile maintenance. The structural component of a dental implant is a small post, made from biocompatible material – most often, titanium.

Dental implants

Implants are a fixed alternative to removable dentures. You can use implants to replace just a single tooth or several teeth. To fit an implant, titanium screws are drilled into the jaw bone to support a crown, bridge or denture.

While waiting for implants, temporary crowns may be a good choice. It is usually made of acrylic-based plastic, and the dentist will cement it in place. The crown offers an aesthetically pleasing option. It will appear like a real tooth, though the patient should be cautious about eating hard foods.

Traditionally, an artificial tooth called a flipper was used. This flipper is a fake tooth that slips into your mouth and is held in place with acrylic. It is a quick and easy type of replacement tooth, but like full dentures, it does require some maintenance.

Starting the 5th day after surgery, rinse using a dilute hydrogen peroxide solution (1/4 hydrogen peroxide with 3/4 saline). Do not use any commercial mouthwash.

What removes hardened plaque? ›

Brushing with baking soda can safely and effectively remove plaque. While still abrasive, baking soda toothpaste is not as hard as the enamel that makes up teeth and can remove plaque without damaging the enamel.

After surgery, the wound or sutures should not be touched or disturbed by your tongue or fingers for two weeks. You might notice a metal or white-colored material, which is the healing abutment that protrudes through the gum tissue.

A flipper tooth, teeth, or denture is a removable partial denture. They contain one or more artificial teeth that fit on the top or lower jaw. A flipper is often made from denture acrylic to ensure they blend perfectly with your smile. The denture is custom-made using an impression of your mouth.

A flipper tooth typically costs between $300 and $500, depending on how many teeth are being fabricated and replaced, the location in the mouth, and your dentist. Removable partial dentures, in contrast, typically cost between $650 and $2,500 for a set.

Titanium dental implants are the most common type of dental currently used. They have a long track history of success. Currently, they are the most versatile solution for restoring teeth as well. Their metal substructures and components allow for restoration of many challenging cases.

Dental bridges are a cost-effective option compared to dental implants. The procedure is less invasive, with a shorter healing time. Bridges restore your smile's appearance and functionality, making chewing and speaking easier. They help maintain proper dental alignment, preventing the shifting of surrounding teeth.

Replacing missing or damaged teeth also helps protect the rest of your oral structure from decay and disease by preventing gaps where bacteria and plaque can build up. It's important to replace any missing or damaged teeth as soon as possible to prevent further damage from occurring.

Dental implants prevent bone loss and are also the best treatment for multiple missing teeth.