Implant Dentistry
Implant dentistry is concerned with the replacement of missing teeth. By using artificial roots (implants) anchored to the jawbone, lost or missing teeth can be fully restored. Crowns or bridges attached to dental implants function, look and feel very much like natural teeth. Patients say the biggest advantage of dental implants is a restored self-esteem. For them, it is possible to eat, talk, smile and laugh again in a natural, uninhibited way. Although implant dentistry has become very popular in recent years, competence in the surgical placement of dental implants requires advanced postgraduate training. As a prosthodontist (a specialist in tooth replacement) Dr. Howard M. Steinberg has successfully placed hundreds of dental implants at his practice in Tucson, AZ.
Consequences of Missing Teeth
Missing some or all of your teeth can have a devastating impact on quality of life. The consequences extend beyond just the appearance of your smile. Missing teeth make it difficult to eat properly, which can result in a poor diet. When several teeth are missing, speech becomes difficult, smiling is avoided and self-esteem goes down. This can have a negative impact on your social and professional life. When teeth are missing, the gum tissues and underlying bone are no longer stimulated well enough, so jawbone starts shrinking and gums recede. This can lead to further tooth loss and serious health problems. Learn more about dental implants.
