Dr. John Lane is a Florence periodontist who works with dental implants in Florence, AL. In recent years, dental implants have become the preferred method of tooth replacement due to the natural appearance and function. Previous solutions, such as dentures or fixed bridges, can often lead to complications over time and actually cause further tooth loss. Dental implants, however, will actively improve your oral health. This is because dental implants are surgically placed in your jaw bone where they become fused with the existing bone mass. This results in a structure that very closely resembles that of a natural tooth root and provides needed stimulation to the bone and soft tissue. In this way, dental implants can encourage growth in these areas and prevent deterioration.
Alternative treatments such as dentures or fixed bridges can cause bone loss and alter the facial structure. This is because they do not interact with the jaw or gum tissue in the way that dental implants do. Removable dentures simply rest on top of the gums and provide little to no stimulation. Over time the gums begin to wear away and the dentures become ill fitting. This is a problem because dentures that do not fit properly can slip around in the mouth, causing difficulty or embarrassment. Dental implants, on the other hand, are held steadily in place. Because of a natural process called osseointegration, dental implants fuse to your natural bone and cannot be removed.
Likewise, Fixed bridges can lead to additional complications. This is because a fixed dental bridge requires that enamel be removed from healthy teeth so that the bridge can fit properly on top. This makes the teeth susceptible to decay and more likely to be extracted in the future. Dental implants provide a solution to this problem because they can function independently and do not require support from remaining healthy teeth. Additionally, in cases where there are multiple missing teeth in a row, your Florence periodontist can use dental implants to create a structure called an implant supported bridge. This is similar to a normal dental bridge, except that is supported by dental implants rather than natural teeth.
While dentures and fixed bridges can lead to complications over time, they are still safe and viable treatments that have their own advantages. Dental implants provide patients with a natural function and appearance. With proper care, they can last an entire lifetime.
Welcome to our practice website. We congratulate you on taking the first step toward better periodontal health. Please utilize this website as a resource. It will help you better understand your course of treatment and answer any questions related to periodontal therapy.
Dr. John Lane is a specialist in periodontics and implantology. Our practice specializes in conservative treatment of gum disease, cosmetic procedures to aesthetically enhance your smile, and dental implants that can replace single or multiple missing teeth. We also diagnose and treat oral pathology.
Although no one likes to go to the doctor or dentist, we strive to make your visits with us as comfortable and pleasant as possible. We strongly believe that our patients' comfort is an important part of quality dental care.
Dr. Lane believes that your right to choose a periodontist is an important freedom. We work closely with your dentist, but a referral by a dentist is not required to visit our office. We also welcome referrals from patients and friends of the practice.
We are extraordinarily proud of our staff, which is comprised of caring and dedicated professionals. They ensure that the patients' treatment and administrative needs are met as efficiently and smoothly as possible.
Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and relaxed. We are here to listen to your questions and concerns and to help provide solutions leading to your better health. Please don't hesitate to e-mail us if you have any questions regarding your care, or call us at (256) 760-8000.