All of our doctors here at Hildebrand Estivo Dental feel that it is important for you understand exactly what dental implants are, and how they can improve the aesthetics and function of your teeth.
Here at Hildebrand Estivo Dental, Dr. Matt Hildebrand and Dr. Mike Estivo offer dental implants for patients looking to improve their appearance, their overall oral health or the function of their teeth or dentures.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are designed to provide a secure foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth. If you are among the many candidates who suffer from permanent tooth loss, you can eliminate the problems and discomfort caused by poorly fitting dentures or missing teeth. You can begin to discover the joy of healthy teeth, eating normally, speaking clearly, feeling confident and laughing comfortably! With dental implants, you can rediscover the comfort and confidence to enjoy your life. Dental implants are designed to provide you with a natural looking and functioning smile.
Did you know that even the loss of one tooth might result in the tipping, drifting and erupting of neighboring and opposing teeth? The loss of several teeth can result in the inability to chew and speak effectively. It can also lead to the collapse of your bite causing stress on your jaw joints and facial muscles. There may be a reduction in the vertical dimension of your face resulting in an older facial appearance and noticeable facial lines. Both Dr. Matt and Dr. Mike consider all these factors when determining how best to achieve dental aesthetics that are in harmony with your physiology.
When removing a tooth it is important to consider what will be done with the empty space after that tooth is removed. Wisdom teeth are in the back of the mouth, so that site will heal on its own with no complications. If it is necessary to remove another tooth, plans must be made. If a tooth is removed and nothing is done with the extraction site, the jaw bone will degenerate and change shape during healing and can cause your teeth to shift. This can create problems in your bite and affect your ability to speak and chew.
You Have Options
If you want to fill the space with a dental implant, a sturdy jaw bone is necessary to install the implant. If you opt for a dental bridge, the bridge must be molded and placed before the teeth shift. Or if you are needing to replace a full arch, then Implant Supported Dentures are an option as well.
Implant Supported Dentures
“Getting implant supported dentures is the best thing I’ve ever done” – C.B.
— This statement from a happy patient of Dr. Hildebrand says it all!
Traditional dentures can cause gum irritation and can move, slip or fall out of the mouth. Chewing can also be difficult and often people are limited as to what they can eat. Statistics show that conventional dentures are only able to provide an average of 20% chewing efficiency. With dental implants, your chewing efficiency can be increased to around 90%.
Implants act as anchors to support dentures and separate them from the gums. The dentures are affixed to the implants and become a permanent, more natural feeling part of your mouth.
Some of the benefits of implant supported dentures are:
- Less gum discomfort and irritation
- No need for denture adhesives
- Increased comfort and stability
- Increased chewing efficiency
- A more natural look and feel
- Prevents dentures from slipping out of place
- Restores teeth functionality and the ability to eat and chew normally
- Option to have an open palate allows for more natural tongue placement
What types of implant supported dentures are available?
Traditional implant supported dentures snap in and out for easy cleaning and convenience.
Implant-retained dentures cannot be removed and act as a natural teeth.
If you are comfortable with your current denture, but want added stability, we offer mini implants that can be added to your current denture. This option allows you to get the mini implants placed and have your denture modified in one visit.
If you are a current user of traditional dentures and would like to learn about implant supported dentures, contact us today.
Hildebrand Estivo Dental Offers Knowledge
All of our doctors here at Hildebrand Estivo Dental are always open to a conversation on what you would like to do with your extraction site before removing a tooth. They will be able to make a recommendation and layout a treatment plan. Make sure to schedule follow up appointments to properly care for your extraction site.