Missing teeth not only affect your appearance but also impact your ability to chew, speak, and maintain overall oral health. Fortunately, dental implants provide a permanent and reliable solution. Whether you're missing one tooth or several, implants can restore your smile and improve your quality of life. In this blog, we'll cover various aspects of dental implants, from what they are to their benefits, the procedure, and their long-term care.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made from biocompatible materials, such as titanium, surgically placed into the jawbone to support a crown, bridge, or denture. Unlike other restorative options, such as traditional dentures or bridges, implants become a part of your jawbone, providing unmatched stability and durability.
Each implant consists of three components:
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Implant Post – the screw-like post inserted into the bone.
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Abutment – the connector that holds the dental restoration in place.
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Restoration – the visible part that resembles a natural tooth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a variety of advantages that make them the preferred solution for many people with missing teeth. They are designed to be permanent and durable, often lasting a lifetime with proper care. The dental restoration placed on top of the implant closely mimics the appearance and feel of natural teeth, ensuring a seamless, natural look. Because the tooth implant fuses with the jawbone, it provides improved comfort, eliminating the slipping or irritation often associated with traditional dentures. Another significant benefit is that implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to prevent bone loss and maintain facial structure over time.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
While dental implants restorations are suitable for most people, a few conditions must be met for the procedure to succeed. If you have underlying conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or osteoporosis, consult with your dentist. These conditions may require extra precautions to ensure the success of your tooth implant. Good candidates for implants generally meet the following criteria:
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Healthy gums free from advanced periodontal disease.
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Sufficient bone density in the jaw to support the implant.
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Good oral hygiene habits to ensure long-term success.
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Non-smokers or those willing to quit, as smoking can interfere with the healing process.
What to Expect During the Implant Procedure
The dental implant process involves several steps, typically spread out over a few months to ensure proper healing. It begins with an initial consultation and examination, during which your dentist evaluates your oral health, takes images of your mouth, and creates a customized treatment plan. The next step is the implant placement surgery, where the implant post is inserted into the jawbone under local anesthesia or sedation. After this procedure, a healing period of three to six months is required to allow the implant to fuse with the bone through a process called osseointegration. Once the implant integrates fully with the bone, the abutment is attached and then your dentist places the custom-made dental implant restoration as the final step in the process.
How to Care for Your Dental Implants
Just like natural teeth, dental implants require regular care to remain in excellent condition. To help your implants last a lifetime, it's important to brush and floss daily using a soft-bristle toothbrush and floss specifically designed for implants. Regular dental check-ups are also essential. Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and implant inspections. Additionally, it's wise to avoid hard foods, such as ice or hard candies, as they can damage the new restoration. Consistent care will help maintain the health and longevity of your implants.
Beautiful Dental Implants in Burlingame
Dental implants offer a reliable, permanent solution for missing teeth, restoring not only your smile but also your ability to eat and speak comfortably. While the process involves multiple steps and an investment of time, the benefits far outweigh the initial effort. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, improving your oral health and confidence.
If you're considering dental implants, our team at Burlingame Dentist can help. From replacing a single tooth to an entire arch of teeth, we have the solutions needed to repair your smile and help restore your confidence. Schedule a visit with our dentist to determine if you're a candidate and start your journey toward a healthier, more functional smile.