As children we’re taught that our new set of teeth is “permanent,” which can be misleading. While they can absolutely be permanent if properly taken care of; once the health of an adult tooth is jeopardized, you can risk losing it altogether. Not only can this drastically impair your life by hindering your ability to eat or talk, but – without the stimulation from the root of your (missing) tooth, your jawbone will begin to deteriorate over time. While many restoration methods can cosmetically restore your tooth, there’s only one option that is able to physically fuse with your jawbone to create a stable, long-lasting, functional replacement – dental implants.
How To Qualify
If you’re overall healthy, have good bone density in your jaw, and are committed to continue excellent oral hygiene, you’re likely a great candidate for dental implants. These replacement teeth may not fuse correctly otherwise, as there are other health risks that could reduce those chances. Your dentist will examine your mouth to determine if these replacement teeth would be the right fit for you and your lifestyle.
How They Work
The bottom portion of dental implants is made out of titanium and closely resembles a screw. During the procedure, your dentist will insert the screw-like portion into your gum tissue until it’s close to your jawbone. For the following 3 to 6 months, your jawbone and the titanium will fuse together through a process called osseointegration.
Once the bottom portion has been placed, your dentist will then use a dental crown to fit over the top of the implant. The crown closely resembles a natural tooth and is actually matched to the shade of your other teeth to create a seamless smile. Not only is this incredibly aesthetically appealing, but the implant is actually able to function just as your natural tooth would, too! Assuming you’re practicing excellent oral hygiene and keeping up with your dentist, you shouldn’t have any problems with your new teeth.
Have You Lost A Tooth?
We’re here to help you restore that bright smile once again, contact us today to schedule your appointment!