What are dental implants?
Many people in the United States have missing teeth due to tooth decay, periodontal disease or simple injury. Dentures and bridges used to be the only option for patients to regain full use of their mouth. Now, dental implants provide another, in some cases better, option.
Dr. Heather Darcey and her team of dental professionals can help! Call 281-317-6881 or make Schedule an Appointment online.
Dental implants can replace missing front and back teeth as well as stabilize a loose denture or even replace multiple teeth to build an entirely new smile.
Instead of teeth that slide out of the mouth, dental implants are permanent by replacing tooth roots. They provide a strong foundation for permanent replacement teeth or if the patient chooses, removable teeth that will match the patient’s natural teeth.
Some advantages that dental implants provide include:
- Cavity resistance
- Improved appearance
- Improved speech
- Improved comfort
- Easier eating
- Improved oral health
- Durability
- Convenience
If you have any questions call Dr. Heather Darcey at Space Age Smiles 281-317-6881
Dental implants actually look and feel like the patient’s original teeth. Unlike dentures, they are designed to fuse with the jaw bone, becoming permanent which means no more mumbling or slurring. Also, since dental implants are like natural teeth eating will become easier since they cannot slide around in the mouth. The process of inserting implants don’t require reducing other teeth as a bridge does. In fact, individual implants allow easier access between teeth which will improve oral health in the long run. Lastly, most implants will last a lifetime.
The dental implant process begins with developing an individualized treatment plan.
A team of dental professionals specialized in restorative dentistry and oral surgery will work with the patient. Secondly, a small titanium post will be placed into the bone socket of the missing tooth. This is the tooth root implant. The jawbone will heal and grow around the implanted metal post causing it to be securely anchored to the jaw. An abutment, or small connector post, will be attached to the metal post in order to securely hold the new tooth. The dentist will have made impressions of the original teeth as well as created a model of the patient’s bite. Then, a crown will be attached to the abutment. The crown will be created to match the color of the new tooth to the natural teeth.
Soreness is expected after this kind of surgery which can easily be treated with over-the-counter pain medications.
The best part about dental implants is that it is as easy to care for them as natural teeth. Simply brush, floss, rinse with antibacterial mouthwash and regularly go to the dentist for optimal oral health.
If you think you may need a dental implant or have any questions contact Dr. Heather Darcey and her team of dental professionals today! Call Space Age Smiles at 281-317-6881 or make an appointment online.