Dental implants are a cornerstone of modern dentistry. Whether you are missing teeth due to gum disease, mouth trauma, or some other cause, dental implants are often the best option for restoring your teeth’s appearance and functionality.
How Dental Implants Work
Denal implants are a tooth replacement option using titanium screws. These screws are placed into the jaw and allowed integrate into bone for about six months through a process called osseointegration. During this time, there will be no permanent prosthetic attached to implant. Most people wear a temporary crown to cover the space.
Following osseointegration, a bit of gum is opened to attach an abutment to the implant. After a two-week healing period, the dentist attaches a custom crown. Or, if you are opting for implant-supported bridges or dentures, the final prosthetic is attached to the implants.
Benefits of Dental Implants
People often have three primary options for replacing missing teeth: implants, bridges, or dentures. Of these three options, dental implants provide the most benefit. For one, since implants are anchored and integrated into the jawbone, they act just like natural tooth roots. When you chew, your tooth roots stimulate the jawbone. Without this stimulation, the jaw begins to deteriorate and lose volume, affecting the structure and appearance of your face.
Also, implants really feel and look like just like a natural tooth. Dentures that aren’t supported by implants are notorious for slipping or feeling uncomfortable on the roof of the mouth. Many people have similar complaints about dental bridges, depending on the type used. Implants are indistinguishable from regular teeth.
Dental implants are also a permanent solution. Some people have issues in the first few months after the implant is placed as your body might reject the metal and not integrate successfully. However, after osseointegration has successfully taken place, your implant should be set for life. Dental crowns often require replacement every 5-15 years depending on placement and use.
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