If you’re missing teeth, you may want to consider the benefits and long-term availability of dental implants. Implants have been around for many years and only get better with time. They’re made out of durable titanium and are surgically placed deep into the bone of the jaw. This allows them to replace not only the top of the tooth that’s missing, but the entire root system as well. They’re durable and can last for decades without needing special care.
What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are restorative options that work with your body to replace one or more missing teeth. You can replace a single tooth with an implant as well as use them to keep bridge work and dentures in place without needing to compromise surrounding dentition. The implant will actually bond with the jaw bone in under a year, providing a stable and fully secured fit for your mouth.
Who’s a Candidate for Dental Implants?
In order for the implants to heal correctly and fuse with the bone, there needs to be enough healthy bone structure in the area where the implant is being placed. If you’re lacking enough bone, we may recommend that you have a grafting done before any implant is put into place. Grafting helps to build up areas of missing bone and improve the quality and strength of the jaw. Bone loss often occurs as a side effect of gum disease or when you’ve had a tooth missing for a long period of time.
What to Expect with the Procedure?
The procedure to place the actual implant is straightforward and takes about an hour for each implant being placed. The gums are separated to allow the implant to be inserted deep into the jaw bone. The implant will then fuse with the surrounding structure in about six months to a year. After it’s healed, we will make a bridge, crown or a new denture for the implants so that they can fit on properly. The procedure is done quickly and provides you with a permanent solution to your tooth loss problems. It’s ideal for most people who want to go with this particular type of restoration option for the benefit of their smile.
If you would like to come in for dental implants, call our office today and we can answer any and all of your questions.
