There are several options available when replacing your teeth, including dentures, fixed bridges and dental implants. Dentures and fixed bridges are traditional options and have been for many years in the dental field. While safe and effective, dental implants have become the preferred option for replacing missing teeth and are offered by our prosthodontist, Dr. Burton Melton.
- All-on-4® Implants
- Bone Grafting
- Dental Implants FAQ
- Implant-Supported Dentures
- Ridge Augmentation
- Sinus Lift
- Socket Preservation
- Why Replace Missing Teeth?
Dental implants are placed into the jawbone, as opposed to dentures or fixed bridges that rest on top of the gums or use surrounding teeth for support. The placement of an implant in the jawbone offers a successful and long-term tooth replacement without the problems traditional methods of replacing missing teeth can pose.
The use of dentures can cause problems that will only worsen over time. Without the stimulation of real teeth, or dental implants, in the jawbone, bone loss can occur. Bone loss will affect your facial structure. Dentures can also cause daily use problems, such as clicking or sliding out of place, which can make eating or drinking difficult. Choosing dental implants to replace missing teeth eliminates these problems.
The implants are titanium and are surgically placed into the jawbone. The implant then fuses with the bone. The fixed nature of the implant prevents slipping common with dentures and also provides the jawbone with necessary stimulation, slowing or preventing bone loss. The titanium composition of the implant also prevents decay.
Dental implant technology is not new to the dental field. Dental implants have been a viable option for replacing missing teeth for over 20 years! As dental implant technology continues to develop and improve, patients who received implants in the ‘80s and ‘90s are still reporting fully functional results.
To learn more about dental implants in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and schedule a consultation with us, please contact Implant Dentistry of the Southwest at 505-883-7744.