The loss of one or more teeth can be devastating and can alter every day functions like eating and speaking. Smiling or laughing, which puts tooth loss on display, can make one feel very self-conscious. But there is a solution that allows patients to restore their smile and ability to eat and speak with complete comfort and reliability … dental implants.
Dental implants are the closest thing to a natural tooth. The tiny titanium post that is embedded in gum tissue where the tooth (or teeth) is missing is the cornerstone to this tooth replacement process that is permanent and intended to last a lifetime.
The process starts with a dental consultation. A review of overall health is completed; a thorough dental examination including x-rays will be done to make sure the patient is a good candidate for a successful outcome.
Once approved, the dentist will either extract teeth as needed or begin where tooth loss has already occurred. The titanium post is surgically implanted in the gum; a protective cover is placed over the implant designed to protect it throughout the healing period.
Over the next several months, bone will fuse to the post incorporating it as a permanent part of the dental anatomy. Titanium is generally used as it has proven to be the metal that is most adaptable for this procedure.
The patient is responsible to maintain the implant area by daily brushing and flossing; infection is a leading cause of implant failure so keeping it as clean as possible is critical. Tobacco use is highly discouraged as smoking is a major contributor to implant failure as well.
Once healed, the dentist will have fabricated a restoration to complete treatment. It can be one tooth; a dental bridge; or even an entire arch of teeth. Depending on the number of teeth to be restored, the number of implants placed will vary.
When completed there are no food restrictions; normal speaking habits are restored; and you will smile without fear of embarrassment. The restorations affixed to the dental implants will feel like your own teeth … there is no movement or removing them for cleaning. Your dentist will have designed the final restoration to match the size, shade, and shape of surrounding natural teeth.
Your dental implants will restore a lifetime of functionality … smiles, speaking, and eating pleasure! To learn more about this innovative tooth replacement solution, contact Howl Dental at 918-749-1626 today.