If you’ve lost a tooth or two over the years, you have more options than ever before to rebuild a beautiful smile. 500,000 people every year are choosing an alternative to traditional bridges and dentures. They are investing in dental implants. Whether you’re missing a single tooth, multiple teeth, or an entire arch, dental implants offer unmatched benefits. Here’s how many it will take to fill the gaps in your smile.

How a Dental Implant Works

A dental implant is unlike any other treatment because it replaces the entire structure. Traditional methods only recreate the portion of a tooth above the gum line, but a dental implant treats both the root and the crown. A titanium post is inserted into the jawbone to mimic a root, which will support a replacement tooth. This provides unmatched benefits not possible using other methods, like a 95% success rate.

Number of Implants Needed

If you’ve lost several or all your teeth, each tooth isn’t replaced individually with a dental implant. Instead, a specific number of posts are used to support your restoration, whether a crown, bridge, or denture. Depending on your degree of tooth loss, here’s how many posts you can expect to need:

• Single Tooth

A single lost tooth will require a dental implant, an abutment, and a crown. The post is surgically placed into the jaw, which will encourage new bone growth. Your bone will fuse to it through a process called osseointegration, allowing it to stay in place forever with the correct aftercare, like brushing and flossing. After your bone has healed, an abutment is placed on the post to connect your restoration. It will be carefully crafted to match the appearance of your natural teeth to blend.

• Multiple Consecutive Teeth

Several lost teeth in a row can be treated with an implant-supported bridge. You won’t have to alter healthy teeth or rely on them for support. 1-2 dental implants are used to anchor your bridge to your jawbone. This can be a great option for people with three or more lost teeth. It provides better support for longer restorations when compared to a traditional fixed bridge.

• Full Arch

4 to 10 dental implants can support a denture. You’ll never have slipping or irritation again because your denture will have the support and strength of your jawbone. You won’t have to worry about relinements or replacements because dental implants are proven to last for 30 years or longer.

Only a dentist can tell you how many dental implants it will take to restore your smile. No matter the number, benefit from the most reliable solution for tooth loss.

About Dr. Ronald A. Moreno

Dr. Moreno attained his dental degree from Georgetown University’s dental school and spent 5 years in the Army Dental Corp. He regularly continues his education to provide up-to-date services in the Bellingham area. Dr. Moreno is affiliated with many professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. If you’re ready to replace your lost teeth, request an appointment online or call (360) 383 5185.