When someone looses a permanent tooth their chewing function is affected, which in turn can compromise jawbone strength and alignment of the other teeth without diagnosis and treatment by an Aurora-area dentist or dental specialist. The alignment of the teeth establishes the pattern of our bite and influences the development of the muscles and bones of our entire head region including the jaw and neck. A missing tooth can start a chain reaction leading to head and neck aches, shifting teeth and an alteration in diet.
Dental implants replace missing teeth naturally. See below for a brief video overview of dental implants and implant restorations (requires Flash plugin).
A dental implant is in some ways just like an ordinary tooth, because it has a
root portion and a crown that works and looks like the enamel and dentin part of the tooth. Implant fixtures themselves vary in size, but all require surgical implantation into the jawbone. A phase of osseointegration takes place after the surgery for three to six months, during which time the surrounding tissues bond to the anchor. If the process fails, the implant is removed and the bone allowed to heal before a retry is attempted.
Dental statistics have shown that the implant procedure is successful in ninety-five percent of the cases in the upper jaw and ninety percent cases in the lower jaw.
Implants are not recommended in all circumstances to all patients; the final determination being made by an appropriately trained Aurora-area dentist or oral surgeon. 
Different considerations like the room available for implant or bone condition can have a bearing on the decision. Dental practitioners may recommend placement of a "mini implant" as opposed to a standard implant, where a much smaller anchor is implanted into the bone. These are used to replace smaller teeth, or to support dentures or overdentures.
Those with implants will still need to follow a regular plan for oral hygiene – including follow-up with their Aurora-area dentist - because the soft and hard tissue (gums and bone) surrounding the implants are just as susceptible to bacteria and infection.
If you think you are a candidate for a dental implant, or if you have a missing tooth or dentures and would like a complimentry dental implant consultation, select the button below and schedule an appointment online today.
