Everything There is to Know About Dental Implants

graphic of dental implant

Why Dental Implants?

Tooth loss is embarrassing for many reasons. And while aesthetics play a large role in why people opt to mitigate any tooth loss they’ve experienced, regaining full function of the mouth is another reason. Oftentimes, however, removable prosthetics like dentures can impact the way a person speaks and even how they eat because they tend to move around.

Permanent prosthetics, known as dental implants, are a great option for people who want to avoid the annoyance of removable prosthetics. These prosthetics rely on metal posts that are implanted into the jaw bone and topped with a crown. Implants give your mouth a more natural, softer appearance.

How do dental implants work?

Dental implants eliminate the frustration often associated with dentures because they don’t slip or fall out. This means that once the implant process is complete a person can continue living their life like they would. There’s no need for special brushing or removing of the prosthetics.

Depending on your case, it could take up to six months for your implants to be completely healed. This is because the dentist has to drill into bone to place the metal rod. If you do not have enough bone he might also perform a bone graft, then have you come back for rod placement.

Prior to being approved for dental implant surgery you will have a consultation with the doctor. During this consultation you’ll go through a thorough exam and have x-rays and impressions taken. These all work together to help the doctor get a more comprehensive view of your mouth and its anatomy. In the end, this means you’ll get better treatment.

Once you’ve received approval for the surgery you’ll come in and have the metal rods placed, as well as a bone graft if necessary. After a few months of healing you’ll come in and have a permanent crown attached to the rod.

What are dental implants like?

Implants look and function like your natural teeth. You don’t have to worry about buying a special toothpaste for them or soaking them in a solution. Simply brush, floss, and visit the dentist like you normally would and enjoy your newfound confidence and beautiful smile.

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

Anyone considering dental implant surgery should be in good health. They should have issues like periodontal disease taken care of and under control before the start of the surgery. Additionally, it’s important that you don’t smoke as this is not only horrible for your overall health, it also makes healing more difficult. In fact, we won’t perform implants on patients who do smoke.