Over the years, I’ve lost several teeth, and my dentures are increasingly problematic. I’ve had sore spots and fungal infections under my dentures, difficulty with biting and chewing, and now trouble with my speech. Dental implants have been suggested. Should I consider this alternative?
Down in the Mouth in Arlington
Dear Down in the Mouth:
In addition to the problems you’ve cited, tooth loss changes facial structure resulting in muscle tone weakening and wrinkles, can result in jaw joint pain, and damage remaining healthy teeth because of excessive use, bite changes and defects in the bone.
According to Dr. Susan Hollar of Arlington (817-261-3392), “dental implant treatment has been recognized as a proven alternative to traditional methods of tooth replacement for over forty years, and has numerous advantages.”
Dental implants replace missing tooth roots, and form a stable foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Dental implants preserve the remaining bone by providing the stimulation previously provided by the natural tooth roots. They also improve appearance dramatically, and are easy to clean and maintain.
The dental implant treatment option makes it unnecessary to grind down adjacent teeth as is done for a bridge, or to fasten a partial denture to adjacent teeth with clasps or hooks that can eventually cause those teeth to loosen. Implant–supported replacement teeth spare patients many of the disadvantages of traditional false teeth including the pain of ill-fitting dentures and partials, the frequent need for denture relines, the fear of denture slippage, and the change in facial structure.
The consequences of complete or partial tooth loss are many. Diagnostic aids such as a CT scan and three–dimensional models of the mouth enable the restorative doctor and surgeon to determine the best treatment options. It is imperative to see a well-trained, professional. Careful treatment planning is necessary for good and lasting results.
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