Implants are a marvelous treatment option! Replacement teeth made with dental implants are designed like natural healthy teeth. Due to their unique design, implant-supported crowns, bridges, and dentures provide the most natural function and feel in the mouth and appearance. When cared for like natural teeth, with the usual good brushing, flossing, and visits to our office in Overland Park, Kansas, implant-retained prosthetic teeth can last a lifetime. For these and other reasons, Dr. Shane Nelson and his talented team want many patients to benefit from this treatment, the very best in tooth replacement.  

Superior capabilities for special needs

Bone grafting or augmentation is one way to accomplish this, as such “pre-treatment” allows patients who would otherwise not be good candidates for implants to be successfully treated with them. 

Dental implants function like tooth roots. They support or stabilize prosthetic teeth in the jawbone. In order to properly function, implants must have a stable foundation and integrate or join to the surrounding bony tissue in the jaw. Some patients, however, are challenged by a major complication of tooth loss: bone loss or “resorption.” This devastating process actually begins to occur soon after a tooth falls out or is extracted (removed). It is for this reason that Dr. Nelson recommends prompt replacement of any lost teeth, with the exception of wisdom teeth. 

The jawbone retains its strength and density due to the stimulation that it gets from the teeth. When teeth are lost, the bone does not receive the beneficial force or stimulation from behaviors such as chewing, biting, and breaking down food. Without proper treatment, the bone resorbs or shrinks. The effects of bone loss gradually become worse. We can avoid or stop this process by replacing teeth quickly. And, for those individuals who have sustained bone loss, never fear! Dr. Nelson can build up bone in the jaw. So, the implant can then successfully integrate into the bone and optimally support the prosthetic teeth that are ultimately attached to it. 

As a holistic dental practice, we are keenly aware of the importance of selecting the right products, materials, and techniques. We can discuss your options for biocompatible (non-toxic and tissue-friendly) materials to apply to the depressed areas of the jaw. This tissue may be sourced from other parts of your body or from other donors – even carefully-selected synthetics that contain natural minerals.

Act now!

Bone loss is a progressive condition. It does not get better on its own. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Nelson today. Our friendly office in Overland Park, KS, can be reached at (913) 297-7800.

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