According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, 69% of adults between the ages of 35 and 44 have lost at least one of their permanent teeth as a result of gum disease, accident, failed root canal, or tooth decay.1 What’s even more unsettling is the fact that 26% of adults will lose all their permanent teeth by age 74.1 Whether due to improper oral care or bone loss that accompanies old age, it’s clear that there is a high demand for replacement teeth.
Finding the best option for replacing missing teeth
Several options exist to replace missing teeth, such as dentures, fixed bridges, or dental implants. Dentures are removable prosthetic teeth that rest on the gum line and stay secured with the use of adhesives. Dentures correct several problems, ranging from speech to chewing, and ensure a great smile with a natural appearance. Unfortunately, dentures can be uncomfortable if not fitted properly, and may slip or cause clicking sounds that can be embarrassing. Dentures typically require replacement every 7 to 15 years; therefore, they are not a permanent solution for tooth replacement. Furthermore, dentures can lead to increased bone loss in the jaw where the teeth are missing.
Fixed bridges are another option for replacing lost teeth. In this procedure, adjacent teeth are used as anchors to which crowns are secured. Bridges are natural in appearance, and perhaps best of all, the procedure usually requires only two visits to the dentist. One of the most common problems is damage to surrounding healthy teeth. Studies have shown a failure rate of approximately 30% in teeth adjacent to a fixed bridge or removable partial denture within 5 to 7 years.1 Gum disease is also associated with fixed bridges.
Dental implants are long-term replacements that, if properly cared for, can last a lifetime. As a result, dental implants are generally regarded as the best long-term option for those who need to replace missing teeth. During dental implant surgery, oral or maxillofacial surgeons fuse implants composed of titanium metal with the jawbone, creating a strong foundation for permanent or removable replacement teeth. Unlike dentures, it is impossible for dental implants to slip or make clicking sounds. Those who have them report that they are much more comfortable than traditional dentures. Because dental implants are fused with the jawbone, tooth decay does not occur and consequently, bone loss is not a risk. If bone erosion and weakening due to a missing tooth is a factor before the procedure, surgeons graft bone to the weak area to strengthen and hold the implant in place. The success rate of dental implant surgery is nearly 95%.1
Dental implant surgery: post-procedure care
The recovery process after receiving dental implant surgery can be long and uncomfortable, with the severity of symptoms depending on the number of implants. Common symptoms after surgery include pain at the implant site, bruising of gums and skin, and swelling of gums and face. During the healing phase, mouth sensitivity is understandably an issue. A daily meticulous home-care routine is essential for the long-term success of implants. An oral care routine should keep the mouth as clean as possible and be gentle on the gums. In addition to prescribing a soft food diet throughout this post-procedure period, your dentist may recommend a gentle, alcohol-free, sodium lauryl sulfate-free oral care product that is effective in both fighting bacteria and soothing sensitive oral tissue. Truly Natural® oral care products from Dental Herb Company are an excellent choice for those recovering from denture, fixed bridge or dental implant procedures. This family of highly effective oral care products consists of Tooth & Gums Tonic®, Tooth & Gums Essentials® Toothpaste, Under the Gums Irrigant®, PerioSpot Gel ®, and Tooth & Gums Spritz®—all of which are alcohol-free, SLS-free and formulated with pure essential oils and natural herbal extracts.
Dental Herb Company products are formulated to reduce oral bacteria, encourage tissue rebuilding and provide soothing, anti-inflammatory relief. The extraordinary effectiveness of Dental Herb Company products is due to the unique way in which they are formulated. Precisely calculated proportions of pure essential oils work synergistically with alcohol-free extracts of organically grown herbs to reduce oral bacteria and maintain healthy teeth and gums.
If you are about to undergo denture, fixed bridge, or dental implant surgery, talk with your dentist about Dental Herb Company’s products. Hold on to your beautiful new smile!
References:
- “Dental Implants.” http://www.aaoms.org. American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, n.d. Web. <http://www.aaoms.org/dental_implants.php>.