What are Dental Implants?

The quick definition of a dental implant dayton is that it is a replacement tooth. The dental implant process dates back to 1951 but has really become popular in the last 25 years. Today there are more than three million Americans that have an implant and the number of procedures a year is pushing 500,000. Let’s look closer at why you need an implant, the conventional options, a quick look at the process and why they are growing in popularity.

Why get a Dental Implant?

If you have either lost a tooth unexpectedly due to an accident or have had a tooth extracted, it is strongly suggested you fill the gap that remains. If you do not the neighboring teeth will slowly shift into that gap and it will have a negative effect on your bite pattern. Of course, a gap in your smile is not natural either so your self-esteem will benefit from filling that gap also.

The Options Available

The conventional method is to fill the gap with a dental bridge. This is where an artificial tooth sits in the gap, on top of the gum, supported by the teeth on each side. They will be cemented in and made permanent. An implant opens up the gum and affixes a titanium post to the jawbone. Once the post grows to the bone an extension is put on and then a natural looking top, or crown, is placed on that extension. The crown will look totally natural and actually will be stronger than a natural tooth.

The actual Dental Implant Process

Once an x-ray is taken to develop a plan with your dentist then a hole is surgically drilled into your jawbone in which the titanium post is placed. It might take several months for the post to grow or graft to the bone. The second step is the addition of the extension or abutment being placed on the post. The final step is the crown, which has been fabricated at a dental lab to match your natural teeth. It will be cemented on to the abutment. Just like that you have a new tooth that looks totally natural.

The Benefits of a Dental Implant

Implants are continuing to grow in popularity due to some of the following features and benefits. First is the appearance as they look totally natural. Second is the improvement in your speech. Third is the fact that they are so natural it is comfortable compared to a bridge or a removable appliance. The strength makes chewing and eating easier. They are durable, convenient and as mentioned earlier will improve your self-esteem and self-confidence.

Care for your Implant

If you continue to brush twice a day, floss once, and develop the habit of scheduling a visit to see your dentist twice a year for checkups, you might get between 10 and 25 years out of that implant. It is ceramic or porcelain so you will need to refrain from chewing really hard objects and to exercise some common sense but the value is there to reward the effort.

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