If you have lost one or more of your natural teeth, the idea of dental implants like those available at Arbor Lakes Dental in Maple Grove is probably very appealing. You may even have read things like this:
- Dental implants are as good as natural teeth!
- Implants can anchor dentures so they don’t slip around!
- Dental implants are far superior to dental bridges!
Those are bold claims. But people with implants understand that they aren’t exaggerations.
A dental implant is a titanium post that is inserted into the jaw, where it fuses with the bone. A single implant can support one artificial tooth, which looks and functions like a natural tooth. Several implants, usually four, can support a denture.
Why Are Implants Better Than Dental Bridges?
When you get a dental bridge to replace a missing tooth, tooth structure from the neighboring or ‘abutment’ teeth is removed. This is so the bridge can be securely mounted to the adjacent teeth.
Think about that. It compromises the two teeth on either side of the missing tooth. That’s why dental bridges are often called a three-tooth solution to a one-tooth problem.
This isn’t necessary with a dental implant.
Dental Bridges Are More Susceptible to Tooth Decay
It can be difficult to keep the area under a dental bridge clean. Food bits accumulate in the small spaces. This creates plaque buildup. Tooth decay under dental bridges is a common problem.
Remember, these teeth have been adapted to hold the dental bridge. If decay develops, the bridge has to be removed. The decayed teeth are filled or crowned. If the decay is severe, the teeth may need root canals.
Dental Bridges and Dentures Don’t Stimulate Bone Growth
When a tooth is extracted, the root is removed. This reduces blood circulation in the bone at the extraction site. Tooth roots help keep your jawbone healthy. When a root is no longer there, the bone recedes.
Since dental bridges and dentures don’t replace tooth roots, they can’t safeguard your bone structure. But a dental implant acts as a replacement root, and prevents bone recession.
Dental implants from Arbor Lakes Dental in Maple Grove are the ideal replacement for missing teeth. We offer our patients a full range of restorative dentistry, and other services. Call to schedule an appointment today!
Contact Arbor Lakes Dental:
763-494-4443
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
12000 Elm Creek Blvd N Ste 230
Maple Grove, Minnesota
55369
