Keeping your smile sparking and your mouth healthy is important for your overall health and wellness as well as your confidence. Proper at home oral health habits are important. So is working with a dentist you know and trust. Triad Dentistry team of Greensboro, NC, have expertise in preventative, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry for patients of all ages. They offer a full suite of services and procedures to replace missing teeth to improve your smile.
Implant supported restoration
A missing tooth does more than harm the appearance of a patient’s smile. It can also lead to further oral health problems as the missing tooth can cause remaining teeth to shift out of place, leading to pockets where food particles and bacteria can become trapped. Furthermore, missing teeth can cause the face to droop from lack of support and lead to bone loss from lack of stimulation. Because of these issues, many dentists recommend dental implants to replace a missing tooth, or teeth.
What are dental implants?
A dental implant is a replacement tooth root made from a small metal post. The post is inserted through the gum into the jawbone. The bone is given time to heal, ensuring that the post is completely sturdy and durable. Once the healing is complete, a replacement tooth is attached to the post. With dental implants, patients can eat their favorite foods, speak clearly, and smile with confidence.
While implants are often the preferred choice of dentists, they can be costly, and they take more time from start to finish. For that reason, other dental restorations such as dentures and crown and bridge appliances are also effective tooth replacement options.
Real Patient, Real Results
The best of both worlds
However, patients who need to replace several missing teeth don’t have to choose between implants and other dental restorations. With implant supported restorations, patients can use implants to firmly secure a denture, crown, or bridge to help improve the function and appearance of the smile.
Benefits of implant-supported restorations
Implant supported restorations have several form and function advantages over those that are not supported with a dental implant. For example:
- Improved function and chewing efficiency – Individuals with dentures often have a difficult time chewing certain foods. Those with implant-supported dentures or bridges can enjoy their favorite food – even apples, corn, and carrots – without fear of losing a dental restoration.
- Speech – Dentures can cause a slight change in patients’ speech as they adjust to the feel of the dentures. Furthermore, even after a patient has used dentures for several years, they can slip as the jaw and gums change shape. This can lead to distorted speech and embarrassment.
- Comfort – Dental restorations that are secured with dental implants are more comfortable than those that adhere to the gums using adhesive.
- Oral health – While implants are comfortable and effective dental restorations that allow patients to speak clearly, eat their favorite foods, and smile with confidence, they also help promote better oral health. The replacement root stimulates the jawbone, much like the original tooth root. This keeps the jawbone in good health, preventing atrophy and maintaining facial muscle tone.
If you’ve been considering your dental restoration or tooth replacement options, implant-supported restorations may be the best choice. This dental restoration is particularly effective for patients who:
- Are missing one or more teeth or are soon going to undergo an extraction procedure, due to decay or trauma to the teeth
- Are in good health and are not experiencing gum disease near the treatment site.
- Are not suffering from chronic, risky, or immune-compromised medical conditions, as these could prevent proper healing after dental procedures
- Have enough jawbone density to support the replacement tooth root. Dentists can also provide bone regeneration treatments to boost the bone density or can use smaller implant posts.
For more information about restorative or cosmetic dental treatments, call Triad Dentistry team at (336) 383-1482 to schedule a consultation.
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Dr. Steven L. Hatcher is a skilled dentist with extensive expertise in oral health and
patient care. A
University of North Carolina alumnus with a background in biology and cancer research, Dr.
Hatcher's military service at prestigious locations, including Fort Meade and the Pentagon, underscores his
commitment to excellence. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and an active member of several
professional associations. Recognized for his dedication through numerous awards, including Army
Commendation Medals, Dr. Hatcher continually advances his knowledge through ongoing education. His
patient-centered approach ensures personalized, long-term oral wellness.
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep
expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A
Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus
and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced
dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness.
His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from
N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting
his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental
care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate
care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training,
Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families.
Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental
health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care
as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term
relationships with her patients.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and
patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from
Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from
Southern Illinois University, she
combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the
Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community
engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis
on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
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