Dental Implants
Losing a tooth can happen unexpectedly, drawing unwanted attention and causing discomfort. We can help you return to a natural smile you are proud of, this is what Dental Implants help solve – a missing tooth.
Implants
Dental implants are one the best treatment options for replacing missing teeth. Implants are becoming more and more popular every year as they look and feel just like the real thing. Better still, most candidates are eligible for dental implants.
Implants replace the root portion of a missing tooth. They are surgically inserted titanium posts that fuse to the jawbone. Your dentist will place your replacement teeth onto these posts; behaving exactly like a real tooth once replaced.
Reasons for implants include:
What are the benefits?
There are many advantages to dental implants, including:
- Improved appearance. Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. And because they are designed to fuse with bone, they become permanent.
- Improved speech. With poor-fitting dentures, the teeth can slip within the mouth causing you to mumble or slur your words. Dental implants allow you to speak without the worry that teeth might slip.
- Improved comfort. Because they become part of you, implants eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures.
Easier eating. Sliding dentures can make chewing difficult. Dental implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with confidence and without pain. - Improved self-esteem. Dental implants can give you back your smile and help you feel better about yourself.
- Improved oral health. Dental implants don’t require reducing other teeth, as a tooth-supported bridge does. Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are left intact, improving long-term oral health. Individual implants also allow easier access between teeth, improving oral hygiene.
- Durability. Implants are very durable and will last many years. With good care, many implants last a lifetime.
- Convenience. Removable dentures are just that; removable. Dental implants eliminate the embarrassing inconvenience of removing dentures, as well as the need for messy adhesives to keep them in place.
How its done
The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months. After deciding that an implant is right for you, X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself onto the bone for up to six months. Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. After several weeks of healing, the artificial crowns, bridges or dentures are made and fitted to the post portion of the implant.
You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental visits will help to maintain your new implant.
When to Visit the Dentist
Many people only go to the dentist when something is wrong. That is truly a shame, because they are missing out on so many preventive services that can save discomfort — and expense — down the road. Regular dental visits are essential to make sure oral health problems — from tooth decay to oral cancer — are detected and treated in a timely manner. Some individuals may need to see the dentist more often than others to stay on top of problems like plaque buildup and gum disease, but everyone should go at least once per year.
Your regular dental visits will include a thorough oral exam to check the health of your teeth and gums; and oral cancer screening to spot any suspicious signs early; and a professional cleaning to remove stubborn deposits and make your teeth look and feel great. So don’t miss out on the many benefits general dentistry offers you and your family!