Dental implants provide a permanent solution for missing teeth, relieving the patient from the hassle associated with partial or complete dentures. They are artificial roots and teeth that are custom crafted for your dentition and surgically placed into the jawbone by a dentist or periodontist—a specialist of the gums and supporting bone. Though made of titanium for strength, dental implants look very natural and often enhance the patient’s smile. Strong, stable, and durable, dental implants will last many years, though they sometimes require re-tightening or replacement due to normal wear.
What can dental implants correct?
- Missing teeth
- Joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into vacant spaces
- Cosmetic problems with one’s smile
- Problems with chewing, speech, and digestion
- Misaligned facial tissues
What’s the procedure for getting dental implants?
Getting dental implants requires a number of visits over several months. The dentist and specialist will work together and take x-rays and impressions, or molds, of the jaw and teeth to gather information about bone tissue, gum tissue, and available spacing for implants. After surgical placement of the implant, healing and proper bone integration can take up to six months.
Once the integration is complete and the mouth is fully healed, the dentist will mount the artificial teeth. Stability of your bite is important for long term health of the implant. It is possible multiple appointments may be necessary to establish the appropriate bite depending on how many implants were placed and restored.
The dentist will provide care instructions when the treatment is complete. Good oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental visits all aid in the life of your new implants.
