Dental Implants: The Permanent Replacement for Missing Teeth
When a patient loses teeth due to decay, injury, or gum disease, he or she can face extensive oral health problems. The remaining teeth can shift, causing misalignment and malocclusion (an uncomfortable bite). Tooth wear, headaches, and reduced self-confidence can soon follow. Worse yet is the bone loss that occurs when a missing tooth isn't replaced. Dr. Latham can resolve all of these issues with dental implants. Often referred to as "nature's rival," dental implants closely resemble natural teeth in function and appearance.
Implants consist of a small titanium post, which serves as a substitute for the root of the missing tooth. An oral surgeon will place the post, and bone will naturally fuse to the titanium over a period of about 3 to 6 months. Once the implant site has healed, Dr. Latham will attach the replacement tooth onto the post. Implants can also stabilize dentures and eliminate the need for adhesive creams.
Care for your implants as you would your own teeth. Brush and floss daily and visit our office for regular hygiene appointments and checkups. In most cases, dental implants last the patient for a lifetime.
Call our Toledo, OH dental office today to reserve your personal consultation with Dr. Latham. Our conveniently located office serves Toledo, Sylvania, Ottawa Hills, and southern Michigan with comprehensive general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry that will keep your family smiling.