Dental Implants for Multiple Tooth Replacement By Danny O'Keefe D.D.S. on April 30, 2018

It is no secret that the development of dental implants has improved the lives of millions of patients. This remarkable technology has also revolutionized treatment planning throughout the dental profession. Today's implants are simply that good. 

These small titanium posts can replace a single tooth, but using dental implants for multiple tooth replacement is equally appropriate. Dr. Danny O'Keefe and Dr. Jan O'Keefe Beloteroutinely provide multiple-tooth implant restorations for patients at their Flowood, MS dental practice. 

The Way it Was

Traditionally, replacing multiple missing teeth has presented a challenge for dentists. The available options often fell short of the goal of restoring the patient to full chewing function.

For patients who were missing some but not all their teeth, the dentist could choose between a permanent or removable dental bridge. These are good options, but neither is ideal. 

The problem with the permanent bridge is that the healthy teeth on either side of the space must be shaved down so the bridge can be cemented over them. Furthermore, there are some cases in which it is not a good choice, because of technical considerations. 

The removable dental bridge also has its issues. Because it is removable, it must be taken out at night. Even more concerning, it can become loose. Additionally, a removable bridge requires metal clasps to hold it into place, and these can sometimes cause esthetic concerns.

The dilemma was even worse in the pre-implant days for patients who had lost all their teeth. For them, a full denture was the only option. The downside of a traditional full denture is that it does not attach to anything. This means that it relies on suction, modern materials, and a good fit to stay in place. Consequently, its retention and efficiency are sometimes less than ideal.

The Age of the Dental Implant

Implants have drastically improved the options for multiple tooth replacement. No longer must the teeth next to a space be drilled down to accommodate a permanent bridge. And no longer must patients wear a removable prosthesis, with the problems they entail. 

Implants can be placed anywhere in the upper or lower jaw in which there is sufficient bone. They integrate with the surrounding bone in which they are embedded, and they form a bond stronger than even that of the original natural tooth. 

This allows crowns, bridges, and even full dentures, like the All-on-4® implant denture system that Dr. O'Keefe and Dr. Belote recommend for their patients, to be securely attached to these sturdy implant posts. Thus, these appliances effectively function like natural teeth.

Thanks to dental implants, the limitations of dental treatment are no longer quite so limiting. Multiple missing teeth can now be replaced with a prosthesis that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth. That is a win-win, by anyone's estimation.

We Want to Hear from You 

If you want to know more about implants, or if you are interested in any of the other services we offer, give us a call. Whatever your needs, we will do whatever necessary to give you the brightest and healthiest smile possible. Call us at the number listed on our website or contact us online.