If you have missing teeth in your smile, you may want to consider the benefits of dental implants. While the timeline for the dental implant process can span anywhere between 5 and 13 months, the results are worth the wait. Dental implants look and function like natural teeth. To determine if you are a candidate for dental implants, we recommend you consult with an experienced dental implant dentist.
In this blog post, we will explain the and its benefits so you can feel informed and confident when scheduling an appointment with your family dentistry.
Dental Implant Procedure
In order to properly secure your tooth replacement, your dentist will drill a hole through the gum line into the jawbone where the implant will be inserted. A protective cover is then placed over the implant. The dental implant is a titanium rod that’s designed to act much like a natural tooth root. Over the next three to six months, you’ll need to wait for the dental implant to anchor to the jawbone in a process called osseointegration.
Once the has properly fused with your jawbone, you’ll be able to move on to the next step. It’s important to understand that the long waiting period is necessary to make sure the dental implant integrates with your jawbone. Otherwise, the dental implant will fail. The next part of your dental implant surgery involves placing an abutment and tooth crown over the implant. The dental implant crown is the visible portion above the gum line that looks like a natural tooth.
Advantages of Dental Implants
Durable: Dental implants are durable because they are meant to imitate the full function of a natural tooth. Unlike dentures which sit on the surface of your gums, dental implants are fused with your jawbone and are incredibly stable. Make sure you take care of your dental implant the same way you would a natural tooth so it lasts a lifetime.
Easier When Eating: Dentures have the tendency to slip slightly when trying to eat. Dental implants, on the other hand, function as a natural tooth and don’t move. Since your dental implant is rooted into your jawbone, you can enjoy your favorite foods without the worry of denture slippage.
Improved Speech: When people get dentures for the first time, they have to relearn how to talk. This is because your lips, cheeks, and tongue have to get used to speaking around a new oral appliance. However, dental implants act like a natural tooth so you don’t have to worry about speaking with a slight lisp or practicing pronunciation. However, it should be noted that first-time denture wearers are able to speak properly with a little practice.
Better Appearance: Dentures that don’t fit properly aren’t able to effectively mimic the appearance of natural teeth, especially if they are constantly slipping. However, your new dental implant will be a permanent dental restoration fused to your jawbone. For this reason, dental implants look and feel natural.
Bone Loss Prevention: The cells in your jawbone require stimulation from tooth roots. Otherwise, your jawbone will start to deteriorate. To prevent jawbone deterioration, we recommend dental implants. Dental implants fuse with the jawbone and create enough pressure to simulate natural tooth roots. If left untreated, jawbone deterioration can lead to further tooth loss or even facial collapse.
If you are interested in learning if you are a candidate for the dental implant procedure, schedule an appointment with our Wyoming dental implant dentist at (616) 538-7320. Dr. Helmus DDS and his team at River Ridge Dentistry restore smiles with the best dental implants and other tooth replacement options.