Dental Implants - Implant Support
How Many Teeth Can a Dental Implant Support?
Traditionally, an implant placed into your bone supports a single crown and this is known as a "single tooth implant". However if you have several missing teeth, you do not necessarily need an implant for every missing tooth: one implant can support several teeth via a bridge or denture. The number of implants required depends on the volume and density of bone tissue available at each implant site and the number of teeth needing to be replaced.
In the case of full-mouth reconstructions, where an arch of several teeth (10+) needs to be supported in either the upper or lower jaw, a minimum of five to six implants in each jaw would be required. The exact number of implants needed would depend on the individual case and your implant surgeon would be able to advise you on the best solution after a thorough examination and assessment.
Dental implants can be placed in patients of any age (with fully developed jawbones), provided that they have a sufficient quantity and quality of bone tissue available. Most healthy individuals that maintain a good oral hygiene program are suitable candidates for dental implants. Circumstances where implants may not be suitable, or situations that have an increased risk of implant failure, include:
- Heavy Smoking - this slows down and hinders the healing process.
- Excessive Alcohol Intake - disrupts healing of the gums.
- Periodontal (Gum) Disease - all active gum disease must be treated prior to any implant procedure to ensure the long-term success of any treatment. Periodontal Disease is a major cause of bone loss, which would hinder the success of any implant procedure.
- Immuno - compromised individuals (steroids, auto immune disease, patients undergoing radiation treatment).
- Teeth Grinders (bruxism) - a night time splint can be given to treat this.
Contact us today!
Dental Implant Services
Dental Implants | Implant Education | Implant Advantage | Implant Support
Implant Examination | Dental Implant FAQ's
