Dental Implants: Restorative Solution for Missing Teeth

If you are missing teeth, dental implants might be the answer to your challenges. You can choose implants whether you have lost one permanent tooth or a few or whether you have several gaps in your mouth. Strong and durable, implants can be a viable treatment for adults of all ages.

Overview of implants

Implants are made of titanium and come in three parts: a screw-like base, a post (or abutment) and a crown that attaches to the post. The dentist will place the base deep into the jaw and allow it to fuse with the bone. The crown will be custom-made to match the person’s natural tooth in shape and color. Implants offer the following benefits:

• Are durable
• Can preserve the shape of the face
• Can allow the patient to eat normally
• Can improve the person’s smile

Initial steps

A patient should only decide to get dental implants after speaking with the dentist and understanding the advantages of this treatment. The dentist and person will determine whether this option is right. If both parties choose to move forward with dental implants, the dentist may first have to pull any damaged teeth. The dental staff will then take X-rays of the person’s teeth and make a mold of the mouth. The impressions will go to a lab where a technician will customize the crowns.

First surgery

The process of getting dental implants will require multiple visits to the dental office. The patient will return after the first appointment to get the implant screws. The dentist will numb the patient and then make an incision in the gums. Next, the dentist will insert the base deep into the jawbone. Over the next few months, the implant will fuse to the bone, and the patient’s gum and jaw will heal.

Placing the crowns

Patients will heal at different rates. Once the dentist believes that the patient is ready, they will return to the office to get the posts attached to the base. The dentist will close the tissue around the abutment but will not cover it. On these, the dentist will place the crowns. The dentist will test the implants to make sure they are a good fit and that the patient feels comfortable.

Aftermath

The patient may feel discomfort at first following each step of the dental implants process. The person may also experience swelling or bleeding in the gums. The dentist may recommend that the person take over-the-counter pain medication, or may prescribe medication. The patient should be careful not to eat hard or sticky foods. It is also important to brush and floss the crowns at least twice a day.

Improve the way you look and feel

If you are missing teeth, there are a few options that may produce the results you want. However, dental implants can last more than 20 years and look like natural teeth. If you think this treatment is the right option for your appearance and health, speak to your dentist and schedule an appointment.

Are you considering getting implants in the Gainesville area? Get more information at https://gallodental.com.

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