Patients who have a single or multiple missing teeth can face many issues ranging from low self-esteem to gum recession or tooth decay, where natural teeth are more exposed by the gaps where teeth should have been. While many people may assume that getting teeth replaced would be on the top of any wish list, it isn’t always that straightforward. Some forms of replacement teeth can be uncomfortable to wear or they can be unreliable in their fit, loosening when talking or eating (here’s looking at you, dentures!)
Thankfully, however, there can be a way to replace missing teeth that doesn’t require major surgery, yet leaves you with a smile that looks aesthetically pleasing and can be relied upon to see you through any meal, no matter how many courses! With dental implants in Melbourne, you can breathe a sigh of relief and feel as though you have your natural smile back and you won’t have any associated speech problems.
What are Implants?
Sometimes referred to as ‘all-on-four’ or ‘same day teeth’, implants are titanium screws which are attached to the jaw bone and act as artificial roots for replacement teeth. Crowns can be used to replace single teeth and ‘all-on-four’ involves bridges to replace multiple teeth, which are attached to just four titanium posts when a whole mouth needs replacing. Dentures may also be attached for this purpose as well. The titanium metal fuses with the tissues in the jaw and the result is a stable and secure structure with which the replacement teeth are adhered to so that when you speak, eat and drink, you don’t have to worry about your replacement teeth loosening.
What are the advantages of having implants?
One of the great things about implants is that they offer a natural finish to your smile. The replacement teeth are made to match any remaining natural teeth you may have, so nobody will know you don’t have a full set of natural teeth. As your replacement teeth will be firmly in place, there should be no chance of your teeth loosening and giving the game away either!
Another advantage of having implants is that you can continue with your regular oral hygiene routine, brushing and flossing regularly, as well as having regular dental check-ups. There is no other more complicated care routine required. By replacing missing teeth, it also protects the natural teeth and gums from further decay. Other issues caused by missing teeth can be that the face becomes shrunken and so by replacing missing teeth, you may find that you also have a more youthful appearance as you are adding structure back into your face.
Some patients also experience difficulties with speech when they have missing teeth, so by replacing your missing teeth you can resolve any difficulties associated with this.
Having implants can be done under local anaesthetic and this means that you will not have to have major surgery to make a big change to your smile. If you think that implants may be for you, it is worth booking a consultation with an implant dentist to find out more about getting a smile that helps you shine from the inside, out!
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.