Dental Implants 101 in Sandy, UT
Before visiting Dr. Thomas Dickson for dental implants in Salt Lake City, UT, you should have a basic understanding of how the treatment works. This understanding will highlight some of the benefits as well as help you decide whether or not this is the best way for you to replace missing teeth.
How Dental Implants Work
First, a small titanium post is placed in the jawbone through a short surgical procedure. After a period of three to six months, the titanium becomes naturally fused with the existing bone mass, making dental implants the sturdiest way to replace missing teeth. Then, a small abutment piece is attached to the top of the titanium post and made to protrude slightly above the gum line. Finally, a tooth-shaped porcelain crown is attached to the abutment piece, making dental implants an attractive way to replace missing teeth.
Dental Implants vs. Dentures and Fixed Bridges
While in the past dentures and fixed bridges were the standard method of tooth replacement, these treatments have become less favorable in the wake of dental implant technology. Dentures do not provide stimulation to bone and soft tissue and, over time, will allow for deterioration in these areas. When this happens, the shape of the jawbone can change and alter the fit of the dentures. Most dentures need to be replaced every five to seven years, making this a less permanent way to replace missing teeth.
Fixed bridges can also cause similar complications over time. Because the bridge needs to rest on top of adjacent teeth, it is necessary to resize and reshape these teeth. Unfortunately, this leaves them vulnerable to bacteria and decay, often causing additional tooth loss. Within the first five to seven years, there is a 30 percent failure rate among patients with dental bridges. While this is still a perfectly safe treatment with its own set of advantages, the potential for failure and need for repair makes this option a more costly way to replace missing teeth.
While traditional procedures pose risks of complication and may even cause further tooth loss, dental implants are a safe and natural way to replace missing teeth with few side effects. They provide necessary stimulation to surrounding areas while being completely self-sufficient. Once the healing process has completed, dental implants will look and feel just like natural teeth. For more information on dental implants in Salt Lake City, UT, contact Dr. Dickson today!
Dr. Thomas R. Dickson and Dr. Lyndi Jones, general dentists in Midvale, Utah, treat patients from Midvale, UT; Millcreek, UT; and Sandy, UT as well as the surrounding areas. Dr. Dickson and Dr. Jones provide advanced dental treatments including the LANAP Laser Treatment for gum disease, dental implants, All-on-4, root canals, sedation, and orthodontics. Call (801) 784-1999 to schedule your appointment or click here to request an appointment online.