Dental Implants
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. They are artificial tooth roots that provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth. Implants are designed to blend in with your other teeth and can restore both your smile and your ability to properly bite and chew.
When you lose a tooth, it can cause changes to the surrounding teeth, gums, and jawbone. Dental implants are inserted into the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone over time to provide a stable base for the replacement tooth. This process, called osseointegration, helps to preserve the natural shape and structure of your jaw.
The implant itself is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone. After the implant has had time to heal and fuse with the bone, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant. Finally, the replacement tooth, or crown, is attached to the abutment. This can be done using a variety of materials, including porcelain, zirconia, and ceramic, to match the color and shape of your surrounding teeth.
One of the major benefits of dental implants is that they are designed to last a long time. With proper care, they can last for many years and even a lifetime. This is because the titanium used in the implants is highly biocompatible and resistant to corrosion.
Another benefit of dental implants is that they can help to preserve the surrounding jawbone and gums. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone and gums can shrink and change shape, which can make it difficult to place traditional dentures. Dental implants help to prevent this from happening by providing a stable base for the replacement tooth.
Finally, dental implants can improve your overall oral health. By filling the gap created by a missing tooth, they help to distribute the forces generated by biting and chewing more evenly, which can reduce the risk of damage to the surrounding teeth. They also make it easier to clean your teeth, which can reduce the risk of gum disease and other oral health problems.
If you are considering dental implants, it is important to talk to your dentist. Your dentist can help you determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure and what to expect during and after the placement of the implants. With proper care, dental implants can help to restore your smile and improve your overall oral health.