If you are missing teeth, then the most obvious problem is starring back at you every time you look in a mirror: that gap in your smile. But, there are other factors to consider beyond the way you look that make replacing missing teeth essential. Dental implants are an excellent choice for tooth replacement, because they restore your complete smile, and they help you avoid several oral and general health concerns. Would you like to learn if dental implants are right for you? Then schedule a consultation with a State College dentist. In the meantime, read on to learn more about dental implants and the implant surgery.
Preparing for Dental Implants
Before receiving dental implants, you will undergo a thorough dental examination that will include digital X-rays as well as impressions to make models of your teeth and mouth.
With this information, the dentist creates a customized treatment plan that considers the number of teeth you need to have replaced and the condition of your jawbone.
Because oral surgery is required for dental implants, you will need to tell the dentist about any medical conditions you may have as well as the medications you take, including over-the-counter and prescription.
Receiving Dental Implants
The dental implant process is divided into two phases. The first involves making a very small incision in your gum tissue in order to surgically embed the dental implant in your jawbone. How many implants are needed will depend on how many teeth need replacement.
As you heal from this minor oral surgery, the posts and surrounding bone fuse together in a process called osseointegration. This affords two benefits: a firm foundation for your new tooth and stimulation for your jawbone. Without a tooth root, bone tissue begins to dissolve and the jaw shrinks. The implant replaces the root and provides the necessary stimulation for healthy new tissue growth.
During the second phase for dental implants in State College, the appropriate tooth restoration is attached—a porcelain crown for a single tooth and bridgework or dentures for several missing teeth.
Once in place, an implant restoration is virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth. And you care for them just the same, too, with daily brushing and flossing and regular dental checkups. Take care of your dental implants, and they will give you years and years of happy and healthy smiles!
To learn more about dental implants, or to schedule a consultation and find out if they are right for you, contact a State College dentist.
About the Author
A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Chris J. Devlin has nearly three decades of experience practicing dentistry. With dental implants, Dr. Devlin restores smiles and confidence at his private practice and can be reached for more information through his website.