For patients who are missing their natural teeth, they may be looking for a way to replace what’s missing without the need to wear a prosthetic appliance or having to compromise surrounding teeth to fit a fixed bridge. In this case, a dental bridge may be the best option for you, since it works independently and can provide you with a full, natural-looking smile.

What Are Dental Implants and How Do They Work?

A dental implant is a small titanium restoration that looks like a small post or screw. This post is surgically embedded into the jaw during a convenient, quick procedure. Over the course of a few months, the implant fuses with the bone and becomes a permanent part of your smile. The upper portion of the implant is known as the abutment, and it acts as the foundation for crowns, bridges and even full dentures. Implants are a great way to replace missing teeth without damaging other dentition and without the need for a partial denture.

How Long Will Dental Implants Last?

The beauty about dental implants and why so many people choose this restoration is because they are considered to be permanent. This means that you will not need to replace or repair the implant after it has been given time to heal. The restorations placed on top of the implant, like the crown or bridge, will need to be replaced over time as they show signs of wear. The implant, however, stays firmly in place and will provide you with a lifetime of wear and durability.

It is important to keep your teeth and mouth clean when you have implants. One issue that can cause implants to loosen and break involves bone loss. Because gum disease can lead to bone loss, it is important to take steps to prevent gum disease from occurring. This means brushing and flossing daily and coming into the office for regular professional cleanings and exams. At each of your exams, we can check on the health of the implant to ensure that it is doing well and does not require any type of additional repair. Implants are a wonderful way to transform your smile and feel better about the way that you look thanks to the technology that has been put into developing them.

If you’d like to learn more about implants, contact us today and one of our friendly staff members can further assist you.