Think You're Not Eligible for Dental Implants? Think Again, As Much Has Changed

A couple of generations ago, you may have faced fewer options when it came to replacing any lost teeth than you do today. The industry simply didn't have the technology or the expertise to perform some of the everyday tasks that you can rely on now, if you want to rebuild your bite and functionality. If you've had a number of teeth removed but never replaced, what should you do now to take advantage of these changes?

Working with Implants

If you have one or more "gaps" in your dentition, most dentists would recommend that your first choice should be to have an implant in its position. The implant is essentially composed of a titanium post which is embedded into the bone, onto which a new tooth or crown is placed.

This type of approach has been in place for many years. However, in the past the specialist may not have been able to move ahead if the other tooth had been missing for some time. That situation has changed now.

The New Procedure

Dentists now use a process known as "resorption" in some cases, which can restore the area where the new tooth is to be placed. This will tend to reverse the natural tendency of the body, which is to reduce the volume of the bone in the area of the old tooth. This natural shrinkage used to mean that the area would not be conducive to the implant, but resorption can overcome this potential issue.

How Is It Done?

To do this, the dentist will typically graft some material into the area beneath the gum tissue, together with some special membranes. These materials are all carefully designed to help the body initiate the process of regeneration and will work in tandem with the body's natural healing procedure to provide a great base.

Ready for Action

Once this has been done, the traditional implant procedure can begin. The titanium post is installed with great accuracy and once it has been allowed to set by itself, the new crown can be attached. This new tooth looks just like the others all around it and is at least as strong as them.

Working out Your Own Options

Even though you may have felt that nothing could be done in your case due to the age of the extractions, you may be pleasantly surprised. Schedule a visit with your dentist to get more information.


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