If you are missing a tooth or teeth, either as a result of an accident or injury or because of premature tooth loss as an adult, then you might be wondering what you can do to fix your smile.

We often find that those with missing teeth aren’t just missing a valuable tool that they use every day but also a significant part of their confidence. When your smile isn’t complete, it has an impact on your confidence and reflection – which can in turn affect both work and your personal life.

This is why, when it comes to fixing a crooked smile, dental implants in Essex have become so popular.
But how do these compare with traditional solutions like dentures?

What are dental implants and how do they compare to dentures?

Let’s start with dentures. A denture is another word for ‘false teeth’. These false teeth are removable and are typically associated with older users, though they can be accessed and used by any and all clients with missing teeth that they want to conceal.

In comparison, dental implants are not removable and offer a much longer lasting alternative. They are constructed from a titanium screw which is embedded into the jawbone in place of a tooth’s natural root. The false tooth is then screwed onto this implant, to present a clean and permanently fixed finish.

Why dental implants are the better solution

Now that we’ve identified the difference in how dentures and dental implants work, why are dental implants often considered the superior option?

For most clients, it all comes down to longevity and the convenience of replacement teeth which do not fall out or become unstuck or unsettled when eating, brushing and completing other habitual tasks.

Because dental implants are fixed into the jawbone, they are comfortable and deliver the most natural aesthetic possible, with dentists able to ensure that the replacement tooth mimics the colour and look of the surrounding teeth to help it blend in. Finally, because dental implants last such a long term, the higher price point is balanced by high value.

The dental implant process uncovered

So, how are dental implants fixed in place – and are there any criteria for eligibility that clients need to be aware of?
In order for dental implants to be successfully embedded and fixed to your smile, you need to have sufficient jawbone density to hold the screw in place and be in good overall health. You need to have a good approach to oral health and hygiene and be committed to caring for your implant.

Once you’ve been deemed a viable candidate, a consultation will be followed by the implantation of the screw. This then needs to heal for a few months before the permanent false tooth is fixed. A temporary false tooth can be screwed in place during the healing process.

Once recovered, your smile will be restored to its full wattage!