Marielaina Perrone DDS believes dental implants are the ideal tooth replacement for your smile. However, are they right for your smile? If you have lost a single tooth or multiple teeth, below are a few things you should know about the dental implant procedure.
Dental implants act as a replacement for the root of the missing tooth.
Dental implant restorations are anchored by a post (the actual implant) placed in the bone and act like your natural tooth root. The dental implant is intimately connected via a process called osseointegration. This process keeps the bones stimulated and prevents them from resorbing over time. This bone maintenance will give you a more youthful appearance than if it was to resorb away.
The placement procedure and restoration have multiple steps.
Dental implants are placed during a surgical procedure performed by a qualified and experienced implant dentist. Osseointegration with the bone takes about 4-6 months to complete, creating a solid base for the eventual replacement tooth. Once fusion is complete, a dental crown will be placed on top of the dental implant to restore and enhance your smile.
Dental Implants are considered a permanent solution to tooth loss.
Dental implants are designed with proper maintenance to be permanent. A properly designed, placed, and cared for implant can last a lifetime. Because they stand alone (unlike a dental bridge), they do not cause stress to the adjacent teeth.
They are low maintenance.
Dental implants can be brushed and flossed just like natural teeth and cannot develop tooth decay. However, they can develop an infection in the bone and periodontal disease without proper care. Care should include at-home dental hygiene maintenance as well as regular visits to the dentist.
Dental Implants are highly customized for each patient.
Treatment is highly customized to the unique needs of each patient. Factors include how many teeth need replacement, where they are located in the mouth and the number and type of implants utilized.
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