Rebuild Your Smile With Dental Implants

Rebuild Your Smile With Dental Implants

In the United States, many adults suffer from tooth loss. The American Academy of Orthodontists recognizes that this dental issue should have a lasting solution. Compared to dentures or dental bridges, dental implants are more durable and stable. Experts say that dental implants can give you more confidence and career opportunities. If you want to rebuild your smile with dental implants, here’s what you should know.

 

The Definition

Dental implants are highly effective in replacing missing teeth. Every implant has a titanium post and abutment. These parts anchor the prosthesis to your jawbone and gum tissue. Successful dental implants do not cause pain. They function and look like natural teeth as well. Before your orthodontist places your new implants, you should expect to go through an established process.

 

The Choices

The moment you decide to get implants, your dental specialist will orient you about the types of dental implants from which you can choose:
 

• Multiple tooth dental implants. In this type, the implant attaches to two separate implants on opposite sides of a restoration that resembles a bridge. This connection is compatible with the implants, replacing at least two teeth on one side.
• Implant-supported dentures. This consists of at least four implants that are distributed over an arch for stability. These dentures are sturdier than traditional dentures. You cannot remove these dentures and soak them at night.
• Single-tooth implant. Here, only one implant needs to replace a missing tooth. It stands independently without any support from neighboring teeth.

The Steps

To get your new dental implants, you should expect to go through the following steps:
 

• Consultation. Your dental specialist will assess your oral condition and health history. If you have any health issues, your orthodontist might request a certificate of health from your attending physician. Be sure to give your dental expert a list of all your medications and supplements.
• Treatments. If you must, you will go through several treatments that will remove infections and strengthen your jawbone. These treatments may take several weeks. Consider the healing time as well before your dentist decides to start the process of attaching your implants.
• Implant surgery. Once your dental surgeon places your implants into your jawbone, expect to have a diet of warm, cold, and soft foods as you heal.
• Osseointegration. During this process, your titanium posts merge with your jawbone. This usually takes weeks. Once osseointegration completes, your orthodontist will attach your dental crown. Your crown will have the same color, shape, fit, and size as those of your natural teeth.

The Candidates

Although dental implants are ideal for tooth replacement, only those who qualify can get them. Good health is the primary factor in making you a good candidate for dental implants. Medical conditions like leukemia or diabetes may delay your healing. The same goes for drinking alcohol and smoking.

 

Dental implants are the most reliable and lasting replacements for missing teeth. At Smile Center, we do our best to guide our patients before, during, and after their dental implant procedure. Please visit our clinics in Delaware and (Linworth)Worthington, Ohio, for an in-person consultation. You can also call us at 740-306-0099 (Delaware—New Patients), 740-417-9565 (Delaware—Existing patients), or 614-350-7446 (Worthington). That way, we can help schedule your appointment or answer your questions about our packages for dental implants.