Dental Implants
Implants | If you have one or more missing teeth, or will soon have one or more extracted, you’ll need to address the gap in your smile to prevent a number of issues from arising. One increasingly popular solution for replacing missing teeth is dental implants. In short, dental implants are implanted firmly within the jawbone. Implants can provide a cosmetic or functional solution to missing teeth, or both.
Before deciding upon any type of dental treatment or procedure, you’ll first need some accurate information to get you started.
What are dental implants?
Overall, dental implants are artificial structures that are placed within the jawbone to serve as a replacement tooth. In addition, they offer both the function and appearance of natural teeth.
Each implant consists of three parts. The component that is implanted within the jawbone itself is a titanium metal screw. Later, your dentist would attach a connecting piece called an abutment onto the implanted metal screw. Finally, they would place a dental crown on top to serve as both a cosmetic and functional replacement for the chewing surface of a tooth.
Dental Implants Benefits
- Matches natural teeth: Your new implant will look almost exactly like your surrounding teeth in every way. Only you and your dentist will know which of your teeth are dental implants.
- Restores bite force: With dentures, you sometimes have to be careful about how you chew and bite your food, as they are known to slip. Implants are anchored within the jawbone and will not slip.
- Prevents bone loss: Without the presence of a tooth root, including an implanted metal post, the underlying jawbone undergoes a process called resorption where the bone literally melts away over time. Implants prevent resorption and unpleasant changes to the facial structure caused by it.
- Permanent solution: When cared for properly, your new dental implant should last for the rest of your life.
Are dental implants indestructible?
Dental implants themselves are extremely strong and cannot be affected by tooth decay. However, the supporting gum structure can be affected by gum disease, so be sure to keep up with your regular oral hygiene.
How long does it take to get a dental implant?
Following the initial implantation of the metal post into the jawbone, some recovery time will be needed. It normally takes about four months from the time that the post is implanted to when all components of the implant are in place.
Is a dental implant right for me?
If you are currently in good overall health and have adequate bone density, you’ll probably make a good candidate to receive a dental implant. Furthermore, even those without sufficient bone density can normally undergo a bone graft procedure.
Schedule Your Consultation
Are you ready to learn if you qualify to receive a dental implant? Contact us today. New patients are welcome.
