What are the benefits of dental implants?

For most people, a smile is an involuntary reaction they don't give a second thought to when they're happy, pleased to see someone, or laughing at a joke. But many who have a missing tooth, multiple missing teeth, defects, disease, or decay in the mouth are often insecure about their smiles and routinely make an effort to stifle them. Complex oral situations not only affect a person's self-esteem, but they can interfere with their personal comfort and overall health and wellness.

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

 For those who are missing one or more teeth, dental implants may be a great alternative to the usual solutions of bridges or dentures. Because implants do not rest on the gum line like removable dentures or require the surrounding teeth to serve as anchor points like bridges, they are considered a long-term answer.

Anyone who is considering dental implants should be aware that certain health conditions might rule them out as an option. The reason is due to the fact that implants are fused to the bone. When the bone is in a weakened state, dental implants are just not always a choice. The conditions that most commonly prevent a patient from having dental implants are the following: uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, radiation to the jaws, smoking, alcoholism, or uncontrolled periodontal (gum) disease. Some medications and herbal supplements can also hamper the possibilities for this line of treatment. For these reasons, it is vital to inform your dental professionals about any health issues-past or present, that you have experienced.

According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, "Statistics show that 69% of adults ages 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth to an accident, gum disease, a failed root canal or tooth decay. Furthermore, by age 74, 26% of adults have lost all of their permanent teeth." Missing teeth cause embarrassment, make eating difficult, and can severely impact one's self-confidence. An issue with dentures and bridges is that over time they can cause further bone loss. Another strike against them is that they usually need to be replaced every 7 to 15 years.

That is why, for the ideal candidates, dental implants make a lot of sense! An implant is essentially a crown on a titanium post. The post is fused with the jawbone and is the next best thing to a healthy, permanent tooth. Unlike dentures or bridges, that can potentially slip or make clicking sounds when talking or chewing, dental implants remain firmly in place. Another plus is that they do not decay or cause bone loss.

Our dental implant patients frequently report how wonderful it is to be free of the day-to-day frustrations caused by missing teeth, ill-fitting bridges and dentures. With their self-confidence restored, many have said they truly have, "a new lease on life," which is something we love to hear!

If you would like to learn more about dental implants, dentures, bridges, or just need experienced and professional dental care, please contact the office of Dr. Simon Melcher of Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh.

From bridges to wisdom teeth, our team of dental professionals is skilled and experienced in the latest strategies and treatments for improving the dental health and hygiene of our clients. Simply call 919-782-0548 to schedule an appointment.

What are Dental Implants and How do they Work?

Anyone who has lost a tooth or teeth due to injury or periodontal disease may be an ideal candidate for dental implants. Dental implants are permanent devices implanted into a patient's jaw in order to substitute a natural tooth root. They can be used to hold a replacement tooth or bridge in place and they rely on the jawbone for support.

There are two types of dental implants: Endosteal (which are inserted into the jaw bone) and Subperiosteal (placed on top of the jaw bone). Endosteal is the most commonly used type of dental implant and can be a great alternative to dentures. Subperiosteal implants are generally used in patients who are unable to wear conventional dentures or those who have minimal bone height.

While dentures are less costly, many patients are choosing implants instead of dentures due to their more natural appearance. Because dentures are removable, patients who use them also have to deal with applying fixatives, which don't always create a secure bond, causing discomfort and embarrassment if the dentures should come loose while eating or speaking.

Depending on your situation, your dentist may advise dental implants, but an ideal candidate should have the following qualifications:

• Good general and dental health.
• Adequate bone in their jaw.
• Have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease.

If you would like to learn if dental implants are the right choice for you, contact Dr. Melcher at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh: 919-782-0548

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Dental Implants in Raleigh NC

Dental Implants in Raleigh NC

Dental implants are a common treatment when there is a need for full tooth replacement due to periodontal disease, injury, or other reasons.  Implants are biocompatible posts that replace the roots of your missing teeth. They are physically and biologically designed to attach to your jaw bone and become the foundation for a natural looking restoration.

Dental implants differ from traditional bridgework because implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support.  Implants are considered one of the most conservative treatments for tooth replacement and provide excellent stability and strength resulting in a new tooth or teeth that will look and feel natural.

Dr. Simon Melcher with Implant and General Dentistry is an expert in tooth replacement treatments using dental implants.  He has years of knowledge and experience with this and other dental treatments.  Give his office a call to request a consultation and appointment for any of your dental needs - from teeth cleaning or whitening to  root canal treatment or implants: (919) 782-0548.