Dental implants can be treated just like your normal teeth with regular brushing and flossing.
At your dental implant consultation, your dentist will assess the health of your gums and jawbone to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. If needed, a gum or bone graft may be completed before the implant is placed to strengthen your mouth.
Dental implants may not be appropriate if you are pregnant, use tobacco products, or are being treated for another issue such as periodontal disease.
If you have one missing tooth, then your dentist will probably recommend that you get a dental implant and crown.
Dentists who specialize in tooth replacement often recommend bridges or partial or complete dentures when they meet patients who have several teeth missing.
If you have several missing teeth, then you may prefer removable partial dentures. Partial dentures have metal frameworks and clasps that attach them to your healthy teeth. Since the prosthetic sits right against your gums and teeth, they often look like your original teeth. Properly trained dentists can even make custom dentures that fit your mouth perfectly. Some patients prefer dentures because they offer a low-cost way to replace missing teeth. More often than not, partial dentures with clasps cost less than those with precision attachments.
Tooth-supported bridges offer a more permanent solution to tooth loss. For tooth-supported bridges, your dentist will create a row of three or more fake teeth. Your dentist will attach the prosthetic by cementing the outer teeth to your healthy teeth.
You can also choose an implant supported bridge. If you take this option, your dentist will install a series of implants in your gums. The implants hold the bridge in place. Some dentists and patients prefer implant-supported bridges, because they are more comfortable, keep healthy teeth straight and offer long-term solutions to tooth loss.