Introduction to Dental Implants
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, typically made of titanium, that provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth designed to match your natural teeth. They are a popular choice for individuals who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason.
What Makes Dental Implants a Popular Choice?
- Durability: Dental implants are designed to last many years, often for a lifetime with proper care.
- Natural Appearance: They look and feel like your own teeth, enhancing your smile and self-confidence.
- Bone Preservation: Implants help preserve the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that typically follows tooth loss.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Choosing dental implants offers several significant benefits:
Improved Appearance
Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. Because they are designed to fuse with bone, they become permanent and provide a natural appearance that can boost your confidence.
Enhanced Comfort
Since implants are integrated into your jawbone, they eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures. You won’t have to worry about slipping dentures or the need for adhesives.
Better Oral Health
Implants don’t require reducing other teeth, as a tooth-supported bridge does. Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are left intact, improving long-term oral health.
The Implant Procedure Explained
Understanding the steps involved in getting dental implants can help alleviate any concerns you might have about the process.
Initial Consultation
During the first visit, our dental team at Britt Dental Center in Brier Creek, NC, will conduct a thorough examination, including X-rays and possibly a 3D scan, to assess the health of your jawbone and determine if dental implants are right for you.
Implant Placement
The next step involves placing the titanium implant into the jawbone. This procedure is usually done under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. After the implant is placed, a healing period of several months is necessary for osseointegration, where the bone grows around the implant, securing it firmly in place.
Abutment Placement
Once the implant has bonded with the jawbone, an abutment is placed on the implant. The abutment is a connector that will hold and support the new tooth.
Placing the Crown
Finally, a custom-made crown is attached to the abutment. The crown is designed to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless look.
Aftercare Tips for Dental Implants
Taking proper care of your dental implants is crucial to ensure their longevity and maintain your oral health.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Using interdental brushes can help clean the hard-to-reach areas around the implant.
Regular Dental Check-ups
Visit Britt Dental Center regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings. Regular visits allow us to monitor the health of your implants and address any issues promptly.
Avoid Hard Foods
Avoid chewing on hard items such as ice and hard candies, which can break the crown or damage the implant.
Quit Smoking
Smoking can weaken the bone structure and may contribute to implant failure. If you smoke, consider quitting to improve the success rate of your dental implants.
Dental implants offer a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution for missing teeth. At Britt Dental Center in Brier Creek, NC, we are committed to providing the highest quality care to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. If you’re considering dental implants, schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about how we can help you restore your smile and confidence.
By choosing Britt Dental Center for your dental implant needs, you’re opting for experienced professionals dedicated to your oral health and well-being. Visit us in Brier Creek and take the first step towards a brighter, more confident smile!