When a patient looses a tooth or teeth through periodontal disease or injury, a dental implant can be the perfect means of restoration. The restoration in done by first inserting a metal post which is then topped with a crown. For more information on dental implants, contact our office today.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
If you’re like most people, it’s important for you to put your best face forward in both professional and personal situations — and you also know that no one’s smile is at its best when missing teeth are a part of the picture. Not only can missing teeth detract from an otherwise attractive appearance, they can interfere with the overall functionality of the rest of the mouth. For instance, chewing food properly becomes more difficult when all the teeth aren’t in place, and speaking clearly can be challenging as well. Missing teeth can also lead to oral health issues and cause structural problems in the jawbone. Furthermore, those with missing teeth are usually uncomfortable when interacting with others, which can have psychological consequences such as depression and loss of self-esteem.
Fortunately, advances in dental technology have reached the point where no one has to suffer due to missing teeth. Dental implants provide an ideal way for those in your position to regain the beauty and functionality of their smiles. Here’s what you need to know about dental implants:
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts that are grafted by the dentist into the patient’s jawbone, which essentially allows them to function much like natural teeth. After the implant is successfully put into place, the dentist will then attach an artificial tooth to it. However, implants aren’t just for replacing a single tooth — they can also replace multiple missing teeth and can even be used as a substitute for dentures. When several teeth in a row are missing, the dentist will install implants and then attach a bridge to hold them in place. For those who have lost all of their teeth, implants can be used to replace traditional dentures. Many patients greatly prefer this option because that eliminates the necessity of taking out their dentures on a nightly basis.
Main Types of Dental Implants
Dental implants come in two varieties. The most common type is known as an endosteal implant and is installed directly into the jawbone. Subperosteal implants, on the other hand, are attached to the jawbone rather than installed into it. This procedure is used for those who lack the necessary bone mass in their jaws for endosteal implants to be successful.
How Long Does It Take?
The dental implant procedure involves several separate stages, and the amount of time from start to finish will depend on several factors, such as your general oral health and whether you’re having single or multiple implants.
First, the actually implants are surgically fused into the jawbone, and the length of this process depends on the number of implants being installed. A single implant should take around 30 minutes, while multiple implants may require three to four hours. Most people are able to return to work the day after this procedure. Patients have the option of wearing temporary tooth replacements during this time.
The second stage of the procedure involves placing the titanium post into the implants. Before this can happen, the implants and the bone material need to bond together, and this can from two to six months. Anywhere from two to six weeks later, your dentist will install the actual titanium posts. The crowns are installed two to three weeks later.
How Are Implants Cared For?
Implants require the same type of care as natural teeth. Be sure to brush and floss on a regular basis and follow any special instructions your dentist may give you. Avoid using baking soda, stain-removing toothpaste, and toothpaste containing stannous or sodium fluoride. You should also make sure to eat a nutritious diet, limit sugary foods and beverages, and to schedule regular checkups with your dentist.
Are Implants Right for You?
Only your dentist can answer this question, but indications that you may be a good candidate for implants include overall good general health, good oral health, and healthy gum tissues.
Please contact us for more information about how dental implants and other restorative dental surgery techniques can give you back your beautiful smile.
