Replacing missing teeth leaves patients with several options: dentures, fixed bridges or 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 Dr. Burton Melton, a prosthodontist in Albuquerque, NM.
Dental implants are placed into the jaw bone 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 jaw bone 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 jaw bone, bone loss can occur. Bone loss will affect your facial structure. Dentures can also cause daily use problems – 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 jaw bone. The implant then fuses with the bone. The fixed nature of the implant prevents slipping common with dentures and also provides the jaw bone 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 whom received implants in the ‘80s and ‘90s are still reporting fully functional results.
To learn more about a dental implants prosthodontist in Albuquerque, call our office today.
Dr. Burton Melton is a leading prosthodontist in Albuquerque, NM. Along with the knowledgeable staff at Implant Dentistry of the Southwest, Dr. Melton offers a variety of advanced treatment options including dental implants, All-on-4 implants, implant supported dentures, bone grafting, and TMJ procedures. Dr. Melton welcomes patients from Albuquerque, NM; Santa Fe, NM; and Northern New Mexico. Call (505) 883-7744 to schedule your appointment or click here to request an appointment online.
