Dental Implants - Everything You Need To Know

A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically inserted into your jawbone. Dental implants can be used to replace one or more missing teeth and can also be used to secure removable dentures.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are permanent replacements for missing teeth that are designed to look, feel and function just like your natural teeth. The implant itself is a titanium post that is surgically placed in the jaw bone beneath the gums. Titanium is completely biocompatible with the human body, so most patients with healthy teeth and gums can qualify for an implant procedure.

How Do They Work?

Dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement option that looks and functions just like a natural tooth. They consist of a titanium post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone, mimicking the natural structure of the tooth. Once the area has healed, an abutment is attached to the implant, and an artificial crown is placed on top of the abutment. This completes your dental implant treatment.

For a single missing tooth, a crown is placed over the dental implant with a connector piece called an abutment in the middle to hold the crown in place. If a patient is missing a row of teeth, multiple implants are placed along the jawline, and a denture is fabricated to snap onto the implants for a secure fit. Multiple dental implants can also be used to anchor traditional dentures in place. Dentures can be stabilized with natural suction, but most patients prefer the security of using implants to lock their dentures into place.

This process results in a permanent solution to missing teeth that restore your smile back to its natural beauty and function. Your new smile will look and feel complete and natural for years to come, allowing you to eat and speak just as you did with your natural teeth.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants are a very effective tooth replacement option because of their durability, high success rate, and other benefits. Here are some of the benefits of getting dental implants:

• Dental implants look completely natural, so nobody can tell they’re not your real teeth!
• No slippage or movement like with dentures.
• Bone loss stops after the placement of dental implants.
• You are able to eat whatever you want without the worry of damaging your teeth again.
• You can avoid many of the problems that come with missing teeth, including shifting teeth and jawbone deterioration.
• Dentures are never truly secure in your mouth, but dental implants stay securely in place.

How Long Do They Last?

Dental implants are considered a permanent restoration option that can last for a lifetime when cared for properly. The lifespan of your dental implants will depend on the quality of the materials used to make the implant and how well you follow your at-home oral care routine. Your dentist will offer dental implant care tips and suggestions to help ensure that you get the most out of your implants.

Caring for the implanted posts is just as important as caring for the teeth surrounding them. Be sure to talk to your dentist about the best brushing technique for your oral health. Generally, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. If you have issues reaching your back teeth, consider using a floss threader or other interdental cleaning device to floss between your teeth. 

Please reach out to our dental practice from your nearest location to have a consultation with our dentist. You can call us or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.