byAlma Abell

Smiling is contagious. A smile is one of the first things people when meeting new people. People with missing, crooked, or discolored teeth are often too embarrassed to smile. Now, with Dental Implants in Annapolis, people have a reason to smile. Dental implants, also known as endosseous implants or fixtures, are essentially artificial tooth roots fitted into the jawbone to support crowns, bridges, or dentures.

The types of dental implants used are endosteal (in the bone) and subperiosteal (on the bone). Endosteal is the most commonly used type involving screws, cylinders, or blades surgically implanted into the jawbone. It is generally used as an alternative for bridges or removable dentures. Each implant holds one or more artificial teeth. Subperiosteal implants are fitted on top of the jawbone with the metal posts protruding through the gums to secure the artificial teeth. This type of implant is used for patients with the minimal bone who are unable to wear conventional dentures.

Ideal candidates for Dental Implants in Annapolis are those in good overall dental and general health, who have adequate bone in the jaw to support the implant and have gums free of periodontal disease. Periodontists are the dental experts that specialize in this area, and many of them have websites where prospective clients can Click Here to view before and after pictures. The periodontist and patient will, together, consider the patient’s needs and available implant choices and work to create a winning smile.

If one tooth is missing, one implant and a crown can replace it. If several teeth are missing, implant-support bridges can replace them. If all of the teeth are missing, an implant-supported full bridge or denture can replace them. A key factor in implant success is the quantity of bone where the implant is to be placed. In some cases, like those involving the upper back jaw, the quantity of bone is insufficient due to the proximity of the sinus. This can be addressed by sinus augmentation where the sinus floor is raised and allowed to develop bone for the dental implants.

Dental implants offer a number of advantages over dentures. For example, they provide a more natural-looking appearance, permanence, improved speech, and easier chewing. Most people find that once they’ve acclimated to them, their dental implants function exactly like real teeth.