Natural Looking Dental Implant
There are a number of restoration options available for patients who are missing one or more teeth. Dental implants are one of the best ways to restore your smile! Regardless of the type of restoration that your dentist determines will best suit your needs, you can be assured that your smile will be as natural looking as possible. Technological advances in cosmetic dentistry have enabled dentists to provide their patients with the most natural looking dental restorations possible!
Dental implants are generally more aesthetically pleasing and are definitely the better option to ensure the overall health of your remaining teeth and bone structure. Dental bridges and dentures have the ability to restore your smile but do not have the same stability and security as dental implants. They can also lead to bone deterioration and will need to be replaced whereas dental implants can last a lifetime! Dental implants can be used to replace one tooth, multiple teeth, or even one or both arches in full.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is composed of three parts: the implant, an abutment, and the dental prosthesis. An oral surgeon or a periodontist is the dental professional who will place your dental implant. The implant itself is a titanium post that is surgically placed directly into the jawbone with a small bit protruding through the gum tissue. The implant is then covered with a temporary abutment and is left to heal for about six months, ensuring maximum osseointegration (fusion with the jaw bone). Once your implant is fully integrated, your implant surgeon will clear you for restoration!
Now, your dentist takes over! Your dentist will remove the temporary abutment and place the permanent abutment and dental prosthesis. If you are having more than one tooth replaced, two or more implants may be used to support your prosthesis.
Cosmetic Benefits of Dental Implants
Modern dental technology and materials allow patients to receive beautiful, natural looking results! Dental implants are much more natural looking than traditional restorations, such as bridges and dentures, and have the added benefit of promoting the health of bone structure and surrounding teeth. Dental implants have the added benefit of longevity! A dental implant can easily last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance whereas a bridge or denture will need to be replaced every 10 years or so.
Dental implants are much more stable and secure for patients while eating and speaking and are easier to care for. A dental implant can be brushed and flossed just like your natural teeth! It is vital that patients maintain good home care and receive routine professional cleanings. It should also be noted that check up x-rays need to be taken annually to ensure the integrity of the implant and bone structure. A lot of patients do not like to have x-rays taken but they are the only way for your dentist to ensure the health of your teeth.
If you are missing one or more teeth, discuss your options with your dentist. They will help determine if you are a candidate for natural looking dental implants!