The replacement of missing teeth has been an important facet of modern dentistry and the focus of both restorative and cosmetic dentistry as new options have become available that are both highly functional and natural looking. One of the problems associated with tooth loss is the subsequent loss of bone in the jaw where the natural tooth root used to be, causing additional dental health issues and bite problems.
Dental implants address this issue, offering patients who have lost a tooth a “replacement in kind”: a prosthetic tooth that is anchored into the jaw bone with a tiny titanium post that mimics the tooth root. The tiny post implanted acts much like a natural tooth root, which helps to generate natural bone growth to support the tooth structure. A dental implant not only provides patients with a secure, natural looking and functioning tooth, but it can also help to reduce further bone loss and support long term dental health.
Dental implants can also be used to secure dentures when a patient has either multiple missing teeth to replace or wishes to fix the problem of ill fitting dentures. Strategically placed implants will serve to support the denture and also help to maintain sufficient bone retention and growth for better long term oral health.
Asheville dentist Dr. Stephen Miller offers implant dentistry and will create a customized treatment plan to suit a patient’s dental health needs and budget. Dr. Miller has over 20 years of experience with placing dental implants and works with local oral surgeons to coordinate care for the surgical phase of treatment.
If you have a damaged tooth, missing tooth, or slipping dentures contact Dr. Miller to schedule a consultation: your oral health is an important part of overall health and well being!