Dental Implants
In the modern world we live in, people are living longer than they did in older times, and while brushing, flossing, and dental hygiene checkups regularly allow many people to maintain their natural smiles – sometimes teeth have a hard time keeping up. Dental implants can give your smile a new life.
Implants mimic the look, feel, + function of natural teeth thanks to a surgically implanted titanium anchor or “root” with a replacement tooth, or a set of replacement teeth, fixed atop it.
They’re also pretty versatile. If you’re only missing one tooth, one implant + one replacement tooth = a new you! Maybe you’re missing several teeth in a row—implants can be used to anchor bridges or dentures, too. This also works if you’ve lost all your teeth. Implants with bridges or dentures help prevent slipping and provide confidence and security to those with these types of restorations.
FAQs
What are the advantages to dental implants over dentures or bridges?
Conventional bridges and dentures are not fixed to the bone, which can cause them to be unstable, making it more difficult to smile or eat confidently. Implants, however, look, feel, and act more like normal teeth. Bonus: Implants also don’t rely directly on your neighboring teeth for support and stability; therefore, they don’t compromise the health of your natural teeth.
The average expectancy of bridges is only about seven to ten years, less than that if you have to have root canals, but implants, when taken well care of, typically will last several years.
You mentioned surgery. Could you tell me more about that?
Of course! If, after a thorough examination by your dentist, your bone structure and oral health are adequate for the procedure, we will schedule the procedure to take place in our dental office. During the procedure, a titanium (the same material in many hip and knee replacements) anchor will be implanted into your jawbone then the surrounding bone tissue will fuse with the post creating a solid foundation for the handcrafted, permanent crown that will blend seamlessly with your other teeth.
Our doctors will also provide you with some postoperative care instructions.
What does post-treatment care of implants look like?
Treat your replacement teeth as you would your natural teeth. They require the same daily brushing and flossing, as well as the same regular checkups! Much like your natural teeth, the better you take care of your replacements, the longer they will last.
Want to find out if dental implants will work for you?
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors to discuss if you are a candidate for dental implants and what the treatment process will look like.