subject: Dental Implants- The Longest Lasting And Most Effective Tooth Replacement Option [print this page] At one point, the only way to restore your smile after a lost tooth was to receive dentures or a dental bridge. Thanks to increases in dental technology over the last few decades, today patients are also able to replace a missing tooth using a dental implant. A dental implant is a replacement tooth root that is inserted into the bone socket of your missing tooth and attached directly to your jawbone. Once installed, an implant acts as an anchor for a replacement crown that is attached to the implant. If you are in need of a tooth replacement procedure, don't hesitate to talk to your dentist about dental implants.
How Dental Implants Are Installed
The first step for you if you are considering dental implants is to have a consultation with your dentist for him or her to go over your options with you and let you know if you are a candidate for dental implants. To receive an implant, you need to have enough bone and gum material to support it. Your dentist will also be able to go over cost and insurance information with you. Once you and your dentist have come to the conclusion that dental implants are the best option for you, he or she will begin the process by anesthetizing the area. Next, the titanium implant will be inserted into the bone socket of your missing tooth. Once the implant is securely fastened to your jawbone, you will need to wait between 6 and 12 weeks for your gums to fully heal around the implant. When this process is completed, your dentist will attach a small connector post to the implant. He or she will then take an impression of the area in order to create a replacement crown that will fit perfectly in your bite.
Once your crown arrives, your dentist will do a final check to make sure the coloring and fit are correct. If they are, he or she will attach the crown to the connector post and the process will be complete. After this, you will be free to leave your dentist's office and start enjoying your fully restored smile.
Why Dental Implants?
The most significant benefit of dental implants is that they are the most permanent and long lasting option that is available. Once an implant is installed, it is not unusual for it to last as long as 25 years or even an entire lifetime. To take care of an implant, all you need to do is brush, floss and regularly see your dentist for checkups and cleanings. This is a much better proposition than having to remove dentures every night and clean them.
To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment, contact your Beaverton dentist today.
