"Smile for the picture." That phrase can cause unease among adults who have lost teeth. In the past, dentures or partials were the only answer to missing teeth. Now, dental implants have become the ideal option to replace missing teeth.

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are ideal to replace a lost tooth, especially in the front of the mouth where it’s most visible. A small, sturdy titanium post is implanted and acts as the root structure would for a natural tooth. A temporary crown can be put on the same day. About a month later, after the bone has grown around the implant, a permanent crown, that looks just as a natural tooth does, replaces the temporary crown. Unlike removable dentures, dental implants are placed under the gums and appear life-like.

Whether you have one missing tooth or several, dental implants are a viable option. A candidate for a dental implant is generally is good overall and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant and healthy gum tissue are optimum.There are several advantages of dental implants over dentures or a bridge.

Dental implants offer an esthetic advantage. They look and feel like your own teeth. Also, they integrate into the bone structure so they prevent the bone loss and gum recession that typically accompany bridgework or dentures. Since dental implants do not sacrifice the quality of your adjacent teeth, like a bridge can, dental implants can offer a significant long-term benefit to your overall oral health.

Dental implants also offer patients the freedom to speak and eat with comfort and confidence. Since the implants are secure, you won’t experience the denture "wobbles."Being free of denture paste and having to remove dentures at night is also very liberating. Another advantage that dental implants have is the fact they have a highly predictable success rate which make them an excellent tooth replacement option.

Even people who are missing all their teeth can benefit from dental implants. Implants can also be used to "lock in" dentures for a secure fit.Like your own teeth, dental implants require care. In order to keep your dental implant clean and plaque-free, regular brushing and flossing are important.

If you have questions about dental implants or cosmetic dentistry, contact your Knoxville family dentist for a consultation.