The loss of a tooth can impact one’s self-image, oral health, and the function of their smile. It becomes challenging for patients to act confidently in social situations because of the changes that have occurred. Fortunately, dentists have a wide range of options for patients to choose from when deciding on the best tooth replacement option for their needs. Dr. Chong Lee and his team at Galleria Dental Aesthetics are dedicated to providing patients with recommendations based on their unique situations. In many cases, a patient might want to consider the benefits of a dental implant.
Understanding how dental implants work
Dental implants are titanium restorations that act as tooth root replacement. They are inserted deep into the jawbone as a natural tooth is to provide a foundation for a restoration. Restorations used for dental implants include dental crowns, dental bridges, and full dentures. The type of restoration will be chosen based on how many teeth a patient needs to replace. Dental implants are often chosen over dental bridges, another restoration, because they are a stand-alone treatment that does not require adjacent teeth for support.
What are the benefits of implants vs. bridges?
There are several reasons why our dental team might suggest the benefits of dental implants. When compared to dental bridges, dental implants:
- Provide permanent restoration. With proper care, patients often enjoy their dental implants for a lifetime, while dental bridges will need to be replaced regularly throughout one’s lifetime.
- Protect natural jaw structure. With bridges or dentures, patients will notice changes in their jaw contours due to natural bone loss. Dental implants, when placed, stimulate bone growth through osseointegration and ensure bone resorption does not occur.
- Maintain natural tooth structure. Placing a dental bridge requires the healthy adjacent teeth to be prepared for the placement of the restoration. A dental implant is a stand-alone restoration that does not impact surrounding teeth.
Request an appointment with our McLean, VA area dentist today!
If you live in the community and are ready to work with our team to book a consultation visit at Galleria Dental Aesthetics, call (703) 448-1020. We are here to help new and established patients find the solutions they need to improve the health, beauty, and function of their smiles.