subject: Dental Implants Offer A Long Lasting And Effective Tooth Replacement Option [print this page] In the past, a tooth lost to decay or injury could only be replaced through a dental bridge or dentures. As dental technology and capabilities have increased over the years, today's patients are also able to receive treatment with dental implants. A dental implant is a replacement tooth root that is installed into the bone socket of your missing tooth and directly attached to your jawbone. If you currently or will soon be in need of a tooth replacement procedure, be sure to talk to your dentist about dental implants.
How Dental Implants Are Installed
The first thing you should do if you are considering dental implants is to have a conversation with your dentist to go over your options and make sure you are a candidate for dental implants. To receive an implant, you will need enough bone and gum material to be able to support the implant. Your dentist will also be able to go over costs and insurance information with you. Once you and your dentist have decided that dental implants are the right option for you, he or she will begin the process by anesthetizing the area and inserting the titanium implant 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 heal around the implant, further securing it in place. Once your mouth has completely healed, your dentist will attach a small connector post to the implant. He or she will then take impressions of the area in order to create a crown that fits in perfectly with the rest of your teeth. These impressions will be sent to a dental lab, where the crown will be created.
Once the crown arrives, your dentist will do a final check to make sure the coloring and fit are correct in your mouth. If they are, he or she will connect 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 fully enjoying your fully restored smile.
The Benefits Of Dental Implants
The most significant benefit of dental implants is that they are the longest lasting option available to you. With the proper care, it is not unusual for dental implants to last 25 years or in some cases an entire lifetime. To take care of your implant, you are only required to brush and floss regularly as well as visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. This is in contrast to the requirements for dentures, where you are required to remove and clean your dentures daily.
To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment, contact your Acworth, Kennesaw or Woodstock dentist today.
