What Are Dental Implants?

Did you know that dental implants in Greenacres are the only tooth restoration option that can effectively preserve your natural bone and stimulate bone growth? This is probably the reason why over 3 million American adults have implants and this number is growing by 500,000 every year.

Everything You Need To Know About Dental Implants

What Is a Dental Implant?

Think of a dental implant as a screw-like titanium fixture that’s surgically placed in your jawbone to serve as a permanent replacement for your missing tooth’s roots. Over time, the implant fuses to the living bone cells of your jaw through the process of osseointegration. Known as the gold standard for tooth restoration, dental implants are a long-term solution for patients who have missing, failing teeth or chronic dental issues.

Unlike dentures that fall off or wiggle loose while you’re speaking or eating, dental implants stay strong and firmly in place like your real teeth. With no repairs and regular adjustments to worry about, dental implants allow you to smile freely and openly for the rest of your life.

What Are the Parts of a Dental Implant?

A dental implant has three parts: the implant, the abutment, and the crown or prosthetic tooth. While the implant itself is a screw that functions as a root for your new tooth, the abutment is a connector that holds and supports your new tooth. Moreover, the crown is the visible part of the tooth that’s usually made of porcelain or zirconium.

What Are the Different Types of Dental Implants?

Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even a full upper and/or lower set of teeth.

• A single-tooth implant is used to replace a missing tooth due to periodontal disease or an accident.
• Multiple implants are ideal for patients who have healthy gums and teeth surrounding the gaps left behind by their missing teeth. The other natural teeth are left intact as the dentist implants two fixtures before attaching the dental crowns.
• Full Mouth Implants are the right choice for patients who need to have their upper and/or lower set of teeth replaced. In such cases, four implants may be placed before your dentist attaches a full arch of teeth.

How Long Does It Take To Replace Missing or Damaged Teeth Using Dental Implants?

Since every patient is unique, the estimated amount of time to complete the process is based on their needs, jawbone condition, medical and dental history, and the materials and technique that your dentist employs. However, complex conditions may take a few months or more than a year to be replaced.

What Are the Benefits of Using a Dental Implant?

It Behaves Like Your Natural Tooth

Perhaps the biggest benefit of a dental implant is the fact that it fully restores your chewing power. You can finally eat your favorite foods with your implants in place. What’s more, you won’t have a hard time keeping them clean because they allow you to brush and floss normally.

It Can Last a Lifetime

While a dental bridge may only manage to last up to ten years, dental implants can last a lifetime because they integrate with your jawbone.

It Prevents Bone Loss

The absence of tooth roots triggers bone loss in the jaw. However, with dental implants that work to replace your tooth’s roots, the jawbone gets much-needed stimulation for natural bone growth.

It Helps Prevent Gum Disease

Did you know that a missing tooth gap can easily trap food and bacteria? This sets the stage for the development of gum disease. With a dental implant in place, your chances of having gum disease are slimmer.

It Restores Your Facial Appearance

Facial sagging is one of the most unwanted effects of bone loss due to missing teeth. Without the placement of dental implants, the distance between the tip of your nose and chin will gradually close and the lower third of your face will collapse.

When this happens, you’ll develop excess wrinkles around your mouth, your child will appear more pointed, and your lips will look thinner, and you’ll look a lot older than your actual age. Dental implants will instantly restore your youth and prevent premature aging.

Considering Dental Implants In Greenacres?

Dr. Miguel Ferrer DDS is ready to tell you more about one of the most popular types of smile restoration. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.