How Dental Implants Work

dental implant cost

In this article we explain How Dental Implants Work.  Dental implants are one of the most popular tooth replacement options, with many people opting for them instead of the traditional full denture or bridge. You should speak with your dentist to see if you are a good candidate for dental implants.

Dental implants provide a more natural tooth replacement than dentures because they are artificial teeth and are attached directly to the jawbone. In order to benefit from the dental implants, you must be in good health, and have a fully developed and healthy jawbone. Healthy jaw and gums are needed to support the implants.

What do they look like?

Dental implants are very similar to natural teeth, unlike dentures. A dental implant resembles a small screw and it serves as an artificial replacement for the root of a missing tooth. Implants are often made of titanium because titanium is body-safe and actually will have bone bond to it. This is important so that the body does not reject the implant.

What does the procedure look like?

If you and your dentist have determined that a dental implant is a good option for you, you will then schedule and appointment for the procedure to take place either at the dentist’s office under local anesthesia or at a hospital under general anesthesia, depending on your needs based on your dental health and the amount of surgery required.

The actual process takes several months to complete and has three major phases:

  • Placing the Implant: First the surgery to place the implant into your jaw where it is covered over with gum tissue and allowed to integrate into the jawbone for three to six months.
  • Attaching the post: After the jaw has sufficiently healed, the dentist will attach a post, or abutment, to the implant. Sometimes both are placed together. This creates an anchor for the replacement tooth.
  • Crown attachment: Your dentist attaches the customized crown to the implant post.

How long will it take?

The surgery itself will takes several hours, and more than one procedure may be needed. Anyone who is at an increased risk for infection may not want to choose dental implants. If you are healthy and you decide to go for the surgery be sure to stick to the oral health routine as prescribed by your practitioner, including the standard twice-daily tooth brushing and daily flossing.

What else should I consider?

IF you are still wondering if dental implants are better for you then dentures, consider that they give you a greater natural ability to eat and speak, as they are most like teeth. And you do not need to remove your dentures or worry about losing them or getting them repaired. But still be sure to see a dentist regularly to be sure that your implants are in good condition and to follow a consistent oral care routine of twice-daily tooth brushing and flossing daily

Dental implants are not good for pregnant women, people with chronic illness or immunosuppression, children, and people who grind or clench their teeth as these are all risk factors in the surgery or in the maintenance.

If dental implants sound like a good option for you, give La Verne Dental & Implant Center in La Verne, CA, a call at (909) 596-1155 to schedule your free dental implant consultation appointment today.

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