Dental implants are a strong and lasting solution for missing teeth. They bring back the look and function of your smile, giving you an option that can feel much more stable than dentures. Over the past 40 years, this choice has made a real difference for many who struggled with dentures or didn’t want to remove healthy teeth for bridges. Here’s a closer look at how implants work and why they may be the right choice for you.
What Are Dental Implants Made Of?
Dental implants consist of titanium and other materials that work well with the body. These materials are safe and create a strong base for new teeth. Each implant is like a small post that goes into the jawbone, where it acts as a new root for the replacement tooth. This secure base makes it feel almost like a natural tooth.
Steps in Getting a Dental Implant
The process to get a dental implant usually has three main steps. First, your dentist places the implant into your jawbone. This requires surgery, but the goal is to set the implant deeply so it holds well, just like a natural root.
The next step is osseointegration. In this phase, the bone grows around the implant and locks it in place. This healing can take some time, and during this period, you might have to eat soft foods and avoid anything too hot. Each person’s healing time is a little different. Some people need to wait until the implant is firmly in place before getting the replacement tooth, while others can have their replacement placed in the same visit.
The final step is to add the artificial tooth, also called a crown. This tooth will fit your mouth in size, shape, and color, blending with the rest of your teeth. If you need more than one tooth replaced, your dentist may use custom-made bridges or dentures designed to fit onto the implants. While you wait for the permanent replacement, the dentist may give you a temporary option so you can eat and speak without problems.
It’s important to remember that not everyone is a candidate for dental implants. Health conditions like diabetes and some immune system issues can make it harder for the body to heal after surgery. Tobacco use can also slow down healing. It’s always best to talk with your dentist about any health concerns to see if implants are a good fit for you.
Dental Implants for More Than One Tooth
Dental implants don’t just replace single teeth. They can also anchor bridges or full dentures to your mouth. For those missing many teeth in the upper or lower jaw, implant-supported dentures can provide a long-lasting solution that feels stable. This option often feels more secure than traditional dentures and can last longer.
Helping With Other Dental Issues
Dental implants can be part of a larger treatment plan for other dental health issues. For example, gum disease, which happens when plaque builds up around your gums, can damage the gums and bone around your teeth. Treatment for gum disease might include deep cleaning methods like scaling, where plaque is removed from below the gum line, or root planing, where the roots are smoothed to help reattachment to the gums. For more serious cases, dental lasers may be used to remove infected tissue.
Implants can also be a part of treatment for TMJ (jaw joint) issues. This condition may cause jaw pain, teeth grinding, and even headaches. Dentists sometimes use night guards with TMJ treatments to help prevent further tooth wear. These guards help cushion the teeth and keep the jaw in a better position, which can relieve pressure and prevent grinding.
Learn More at Frederick Center for Dentistry
With all these benefits, dental implants can offer more than just a way to replace missing teeth. They can improve your bite, stabilize other dental treatments, and help address issues that affect your mouth and jaw. If you think dental implants could be a good option for you, reach out to Frederick Center for Dentistry today to learn more about the process and to schedule a consultation.