Dental implants have become a popular choice for tooth replacement as they offer benefits that other options such as bridges or dentures can not. These surgical components are giving people the chance to chew naturally and smile confidently again. However, unlike dentures or bridges, the dental implant process does tend to be longer, but the wait is worth it.
In this article, we discuss the dental implant procedure and go over how implants become a permanent part of the jaw. This happens to be one of the many benefits that dental implants have to offer. If you are wanting dental implants, then reading this may be helpful as you consider your options.
Most people believe that dental implants completely replace the tooth but that is actually a misconception. Keep reading to find out what dental implants are and what they do.
A dental implant is a surgical component that is used to replace the tooth’s structure. They are typically made of titanium and they are shaped like screws.
An oral surgeon will place dental implants within the jawbone so that another prosthetic can be placed such as an artificial tooth or dental crown. Dental implants replace a natural tooth’s roots by acting as the support system to the artificial tooth.
An oral surgeon will remove any remaining parts of a decayed tooth so that the area is free of anything harmful. They will then make a small incision in the gums in order to expose the bone beneath the tissue. Once the bone is exposed, a drill will be used to make a small hole in the bone. The titanium dental implant will be placed in the hole and secured in place.
Once the implant is placed, the oral surgeon may or may not close the open wound, this depends on the preference of the oral surgeon as well as the severity of the wound. A temporary artificial tooth may be placed atop the implant while healing takes place.
Most dental implants are made of titanium which is a biodegradable material that the body does not usually reject. Titanium is non-toxic which also means that most people are less likely to have allergic reactions.
Once the implant is placed, a process called osseointegration takes place. During this time, the dental implant will fuse with the natural bone. In most scenarios, the body accepts the titanium implant and the fusing process takes a few months.
Some people do not have enough bone support within their jaws. This may be due to genetics or because of the natural tooth loss that occurred prior. When a person’s natural tooth decays or falls out, the bone beneath the gum tissues also deteriorates.
With that being said, in order for dental implants to become a permanent part of the jaw, there is sometimes a need for bone grafting. Bone grafting takes place if there is not enough bone to support the implants. Bone is taken from other areas of the body so that the jaw is strong enough to support the implants once placed.
Dental implants can change your life for the better. Through this process, we can help you to regain your mouth strength back so that you can eat and smile again.
Want to know more about dental implants and the process? Call us today so that we can help you! Our trained professionals can guide you through dental implants and answer any questions that you might have.
Are you considering dental implants in the Delaware area? Get more dental implants information at https://sexton-dental.com/.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Understanding the importance of an oral cancer screening is necessary, especially for dental patients who smoke, drink alcohol, or spend a lot of time in the sun without using some protection. According to the Mayo Clinic, oral cancer screening aims to identify mouth cancer early, when there is a greater chance for a cure.Learning what…
Dental veneers are custom-fit shells made of porcelain or ceramic material. These restorations are easy to get, but you need to have the commitment to care for them. Knowing how long they last and how to maintain these restorations can help you prepare for a life of wearing these shells. Here are the details you…
You might want to head to a general dentist if you find yourself dealing with a cavity. Cavities are tiny holes that form on teeth because of tooth decay. Acids created by oral bacteria eat away at teeth surfaces, creating those tiny holes. Other symptoms include reoccurring toothaches, increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods,…
An implant crown is an important part of dental implants. This is a cap that goes on the end of the implant, acting as the tooth. It is natural-looking in color, shape, and size. If you are missing a tooth, you should not have to live with a gap in your mouth. This treatment can…
Understanding the importance of an oral cancer screening is necessary, especially for dental patients who smoke, drink alcohol, or spend a lot of time in the sun without using some protection. According to the Mayo Clinic, oral cancer screening aims to identify mouth cancer early, when there is a greater chance for a cure.Learning what…
Dental veneers are custom-fit shells made of porcelain or ceramic material. These restorations are easy to get, but you need to have the commitment to care for them. Knowing how long they last and how to maintain these restorations can help you prepare for a life of wearing these shells. Here are the details you…