Dental implants are ideal to replace one or more teeth lost due to trauma, decay, or disease. They look and feel as natural as your own biological teeth; and allow the patient to chew, speak, and smile as confidently as before tooth loss occurred.
Preparing For A Dental Implant
There are numerous steps needed when considering a dental implant:
A discussion about overall health will be followed by a very thorough dental examination. X-rays will be taken to help determine bone strength where the implant is to be placed. If bone is insufficient, bone augmentation can be performed. In this phase either synthetic bone or bone from another source is used to build up support for the implant.
When ready, the implant will be surgically placed. The implant itself is a titanium post that will be embedded in gum tissue where the tooth was lost. The patient is instructed on how to care for the implant area to prevent infection. Follow post operative instructions to the letter; use any recommended rinses as directed. Brush and floss as instructed. And do not smoke or use tobacco in any form.
Final Restoration
The final restoration has been fabricated to look just like neighboring teeth in size, shape, and shade. Your dentist will attach an abutment to the implant post; the restoration will be tried in for fit and aesthetics before being cemented into place.
You will leave the dental office with the ability to eat all your favorite foods once again without fear of movement; you will speak clearly without the possibility of your tooth slipping; and you will be smiling with a renewed self confidence.
You will care for your new tooth just like you care for all your natural teeth. Brush twice every day with a fluoridated toothpaste; floss daily to remove what your toothbrush missed; and visit our team at Howl Dental every six months for cleaning and dental exam. Continue with instructions issued by your dentist. Your implant is designed to last a lifetime with the proper daily oral care and dental visits as recommended.