Replacing missing teeth is important to maintaining good oral health. Even one or two missing teeth can lead to serious problems down the road. If left untreated, gaps in your smile could lead to shifting teeth, a deteriorating jawbone and even gum disease. In this blog post, trusted Seattle dentist Dr. Dean Kois answers questions about how many dental implants can be placed at one time.

Reasons for Dental Implants

There are many reasons why people consider getting dental implants. Below are a few of the primary motivating factors for choosing implants:

• Stop teeth from shifting. The teeth surrounding a gap will begin to shift over time to fill in the empty space. Unevenly spaced teeth can cause bite problems and oral health issues as it is more difficult to keep them clean.
• Keep your jawbone healthy. Unlike dental bridges, implants stimulate the bone beneath the tooth, preventing the jawbone from deteriorating.
• Preserve facial structure. If your jawbone deteriorates, your face can begin to appear sunken over time. Thin lips and sunken cheeks can make you look much older than your natural age.

How Many Implants Should You Get?

Depending on your needs, dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth up to an entire row. One or two missing teeth will require one implant per tooth. If you require two or more missing teeth to be replaced, fewer implants may be used to anchor the teeth. Depending on the placement of the implants and the volume of bone density in your jaw, as few as two implants can be used to support a four-tooth bridge. For implant-supported full arch dentures, as many as eight and as little as four implants may be used.

Your Overall Health

While it is possible for a healthy patient to have multiple implants placed at once, there are several factors at play in determining whether or not you are a good candidate for dental implants. Bone volume and structure must be evaluated to avoid issues surrounding bone atrophy. The patient also must not exhibit signs of periodontal disease, as this can obstruct the healing process. Your dentist will be able to evaluate your oral and overall health and help you decide if dental implants are right for you.

Only a trip to the dentist will help you determine if dental implants are a viable option for you. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dean Kois or Dr. Tara Kois, call Kois Dentistry at (206) 515-9500.