In the past, losing a tooth usually meant that it was gone for good. Although dentists have offered some form of dental restorations since 
ancient times, dental implants are the first and only treatment option designed to completely replicate a natural tooth, by replacing the root as well as the crown. Dr. Richard Mark, a dentist in Independence, MO, recommends dental implants for adults in good general health with enough bone density to support an implant in the gums.
Dental Implants in Independence
Missing teeth do more than just ruin a smile. They can also affect our health, by making it difficult to eat and properly digest our food. Along with cosmetic and practical concerns like the inability to eat, tooth loss also increases the risk of future oral health problems like inflammation due to bone loss in the gums. While dentures and cosmetic crowns and bridges can replace the cosmetic and mechanical function of the teeth, implants replace the root, helping to securely and permanently anchor a crown or set of dentures in place, as well as preserving healthy bone tissue.
Implants are completed in two steps. First, the implant is surgically placed in the jaw to replace the root of the missing tooth. The implant is shaped like a small screw and made of biocompatible titanium. Once it has fused with the surrounding bone tissue, the cosmetic crown is attached. Implants are one of the most versatile dental restorations available and can be used to replace a single tooth, a bridge or a set of dentures with just a few implants.
Find a Dentist in Independence, MO
Losing teeth can be an emotionally traumatic experience, but thanks to dental implants it no longer has to be permanent. To learn more about how implants work and if they are the best dental restoration option for you, contact the office of Dr. Mark by calling (816) 461-3660 to schedule an appointment today.