Dental implants are one of the best ways to replace missing teeth and restore both the look and function of your smile. Whether you’ve lost a tooth due to injury, decay, or other reasons, dental implants can help you smile confidently again. But what exactly are dental implants, and how do they work? Let’s break it down.
Understanding Dental Implants
A dental implant is a permanent solution for replacing a missing tooth. Unlike dentures or bridges, which rest on top of the gums, a dental implant involves a titanium post that is placed into your jawbone. This post serves as a replacement for the natural tooth root and provides a stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture.
Once the implant is in place and the bone heals around it, a custom-made restoration (such as a crown) is attached to the post. The result is a tooth that looks and feels just like a natural one.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
The process of getting a dental implant typically takes several months and involves a few key steps. First, the titanium post is surgically placed into your jawbone. This post is biocompatible, meaning it will bond with the bone over time, creating a strong foundation. This process is called osseointegration.
Once the post has fully integrated with the bone, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant. The final result is a permanent, functional, and natural-looking tooth replacement.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
There are many reasons why dental implants are a preferred choice for tooth replacement. Here are some of the main benefits:
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Natural Look and Feel
Dental implants are designed to look and feel just like your natural teeth. The crown is made to match the color and shape of your existing teeth, so it blends seamlessly into your smile. -
Long-Term Solution
Dental implants are durable and built to last. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years or even a lifetime. Unlike dental bridges or dentures, which may need to be replaced after a certain time, dental implants are a permanent solution. -
Improved Function
With dental implants, you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Implants are firmly anchored in your jawbone, so they won’t slip or shift like dentures. They function just like your natural teeth, allowing you to chew and speak normally. -
Preserve Jawbone Health
When you lose a tooth, the jawbone in that area can begin to weaken and shrink over time. Dental implants help preserve your jawbone by providing the stimulation it needs to stay strong. This helps maintain the shape and structure of your face. -
No Impact on Surrounding Teeth
Unlike dental bridges, which require altering healthy surrounding teeth, dental implants don’t affect nearby teeth. The implant post is placed directly into your jawbone, so there’s no need to alter other teeth to support the replacement.
Who Needs Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a great option for anyone who has lost a tooth and wants a permanent, natural-looking replacement. They are suitable for people who have healthy gums and enough bone in the jaw to support the implant. If your jawbone has weakened due to bone loss, additional treatments like a bone graft may be needed before the implant can be placed.
If you have several missing teeth, dental implants can also be used to support implant-supported dentures or multiple teeth implants.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Yes, dental implants are very safe when performed by a skilled professional like Dr. Hassan. The materials used in dental implants are biocompatible, meaning they are safe to use in the body. Dental implants have been used for many years and have a high success rate.
During your consultation, Dr. Hassan will evaluate your medical history and oral health to make sure dental implants are a good option for you.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
At North Shore Periodontics and Implantology, we specialize in dental implants and are committed to providing the highest quality care. If you’ve lost a tooth and want a permanent replacement, dental implants may be the solution you’ve been looking for.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how dental implants can help restore your smile and confidence.