Many of us associate dentures and missing teeth with senior citizens, but according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, 69% of adults between the ages of 35 and 44 will lose a permanent tooth because of gum disease, an unsuccessful root canal, tooth decay or an accident.
When Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist Dr. Kourosh Maddahi’s patients have missing or severely damaged teeth he often recommends dental implants rather than dentures or bridges as a solution.
Missing teeth are not only a cosmetic problem; they can also be an overall dental health problem. When missing teeth are not addressed surrounding teeth can be lost or damaged due to tipping and crowding issues. Dr. Maddahi prefers implants to dentures because unlike dentures implants help to prevent jawbone shrinkage, a common problem associated with missing teeth.
Dental implants are individually crafted to match the patient’s natural teeth. They also afford the patient more freedom when they eat, talk and smile as compared to dentures.
The implant procedure starts when a small titanium cylinder post is surgically implanted into the jaw of the patient. It has been found that titanium can fuse with the jawbone for a secure, stable and functional bond between jaw and the implant. The implant post then acts as an artificial root for the new crown to be mounted to permanently.
“My patients prefer the natural look and feel of dental implants. Patients also can eat and speak and even smile without worrying about their dentures slipping or moving,” Dr. Maddahi explains.
Dr. Maddahi has specialized in providing outstanding, state-of-the-art dental care for more than 22 years, click here to tour his office. To find out more about dental implants or for a free dental consultation, contact Dr. Maddahi’s office by email or by phone at (888) 310-6771.