Dental Implants
Dental implants are a state-of-the-art solution to the problem of missing teeth. Whether you are missing one tooth or several, dental implants can play a significant role as we work to bring your smile back to its original beauty.
The Problem of Missing Teeth
Missing teeth are more than a cosmetic problem. Although most patients who are missing teeth are primarily concerned about their appearance, the issue is in fact much deeper. Missing teeth open the door for a wide range of dental problems. Have your missing teeth caused you to experience any of the following?
- Pain or discomfort when eating foods you used to enjoy
- Unintended weight loss or symptoms associated with malnutrition
- Shifting of your remaining teeth
- Aches or pains in your jaw
- Erosion or wearing down of your other teeth
- Symptoms of periodontal disease including swelling or bleeding of your gums
- Changes in the sound of your speech
- Changes in the appearance of your face
It’s important to not discount the aesthetic issues surrounding missing teeth, as well. Missing teeth have an unfair stigma attached to them, and you may have experienced people making incorrect assumptions about you. You may lose your self-confidence and find yourself remaining quiet instead of speaking up, avoiding laughter, and covering your mouth every time you smile.
In time, missing teeth can lead to a serious shift in your quality of life and may even pave the road for depression. You deserve better than that. Call Smiles of Carolina and talk with Dr. Mark or Dr. Ko about your options for replacing your missing teeth.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants consist of a small titanium post that is implanted in the place where your tooth used to be. This biocompatible post then functions as a “root” to which a dental crown is affixed. The dental crown is created to blend in perfectly with the rest of your teeth to give you back a beautiful, complete smile with full function.
Because dental implants are designed to become a permanent part of your mouth, you can care for your implants the same way you would for own natural teeth. Your Smiles of Carolina dentist will discuss good oral hygiene techniques with you. If needed, your dentist or your dental hygienist is happy to provide a hands-on demonstration of good brushing and flossing technique. You might be surprised to find out how often people are doing it wrong!
Dental Implants Vs. Dentures
While denture technology has advanced considerably in the last few years, dental implants still have several advantages over dentures. You don’t have to remove implants to clean them, and you never have to worry about unfortunate or untimely slips. Many people find that their food choices are more limited with dentures because they are worried about the food sticking to the dentures or the dentures being damaged. While dental implants cost more than dentures, most of our patients find that the advantages of dental implants outweigh the extra cost.
To find out if dental implants are the right choice for you, please call Smiles of Carolina today to schedule your consultation appointment with Dr. Ko or Dr. Mark.
