Patients with missing teeth can find effective and permanent tooth replacement treatment with dental implants. These fixtures can improve your smile’s appearance and restore oral function after tooth loss.
Patients have many different needs when it comes to tooth replacement, so dentists have developed many implants that can help in unique ways. Dr. Andrew Cobb, a dentist in Washington, DC, describes three types of dental implants that can restore your smile if you are missing teeth.
Single Dental Implants
A single dental implant consists of a titanium post that a dentist surgically places into the jaw. Once this heals, the dentist secures a prosthetic tooth or crown to an abutment above the gum line that attaches to this post.
A single dental implant helps patients who have lost one tooth, though patients can benefit from more than one single implant if needed. This fixture fills gaps in a patient’s smile that can restore confidence in their smile’s appearance after tooth loss.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridges
An implant-supported dental bridge helps patients who are missing several teeth in a row. With this treatment, the dentist uses two titanium posts: one for each end of the bridge prosthetic.
The implant helps patients eat and speak normally again if they were having trouble when their teeth were missing. They can have confidence in their oral capabilities with this secure and permanent treatment. Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance.
All-on-Four Dental Implants
All-on-Four dental implants can replace a full arch of teeth. Some patients will replace both the top and bottom rows of teeth. This treatment uses four titanium posts as a foundation for the prosthetic arch.
Unlike other tooth replacement treatments, dental implants can benefit jawbone health. The titanium post replaces the tooth root as well as the tooth above the gum line.
This stops bone from deteriorating and encourages the regrowth of any bone that may have already been lost. Patients with dental implants will not have to worry about facial sagging or jaw misalignment that can occur after tooth loss.
For answers to your dental implant questions, see dental implants FAQs.
Replace Missing Teeth with Implants in Washington, DC
Chevy Chase Digital Dentistry replaces missing teeth with dental implants in Washington, DC. Dr. Cobb also specializes in cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry, including periodontal therapy. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 202-455-0901.