If your missing tooth (or teeth) have you feeling down about your appearance, you are not alone. In fact, about 178 million Americans have at least one gap in their smile, according to the American College of Prosthodontists. Luckily, dental implants not only replace your missing tooth, but they also give you a permanent and low-maintenance solution for your gaps. Find out more about dental implants by reading below, and contact Dr. Herman Salzberg at Palatine Dental in Palatine, IL, if you are interested in treatment!

What is a dental implant?
Dental implants are the only truly permanent tooth replacement option. While other restorations, such as bridges, remain in the mouth through the anchoring support of surrounding teeth, a dental implant mimics the action of natural tooth roots through its placement in the jawbone. Over the course of the healing process, the bone grows around the implant to hold it securely in place, thus providing unparalleled support and stability.

Am I a good candidate for a dental implant?
Patients considering dental implants should have one or more missing teeth they would like to replace. Missing teeth cause the bone below them to break down, a process called bone atrophy. Implants require an adequate amount of bone in the area of the implant; patients who have significant bone atrophy may require a grafting treatment. Additionally, patients should have a strong at-home care routine to care for their implants and natural teeth.

How should I care for a dental implant?
Caring for a dental implant is as easy as caring for your natural smile. The American Dental Association suggests the same daily oral care routine for patients of all ages:

1. Brush twice daily using a soft toothbrush
2. Floss between each tooth at least once a day
3. See your dentist at least twice a year for preventative examinations
4. Have your teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year

Dental implants from our Palatine office
If you are unhappy with the gaps in your smile, consulting with your dentist is the best way to determine if dental implants are the best treatment for you. For more information on dental implants, please contact Dr. Herman Salzberg at Palatine Dental in Palatine, IL. Call 847-359-6766 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Salzberg today!