What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants at Periodontic Associates of Port Huron are considered the gold standard for a replacement tooth. Dental implants were introduced in the 1960s but with improved technology have become extremely popular in the last 25 years. Today the dental industry is seeing over 500,000 dental implants a year. Let us look at why you might need a dental implant, the process itself, and the long list of benefits in choosing this replacement solution.

The Reasons for Getting a Dental Implant

If you have had the misfortune of either having a tooth extracted or an untimely accident having a tooth knocked out, it is in your best interests to have that gap filled as soon as possible. The neighboring teeth will want to drift into that space affecting your bite. There is also the cosmetic issue of your smile if the gap is visible.

Before the introduction of dental implants your primary option for a replacement tooth was that of a dental bridge. An artificial crown would be suspended between the two adjacent teeth. These two teeth would serve as abutments, or anchors. The neighboring teeth would have to be cut down to fit the bridge thus destroying the enamel layer.

The Dental Implant Procedure

The procedure begins with the dentist numbing the soft tissue involved with a local anesthetic. Once that has been accomplished a small incision is made in the gum. This allows access to the jawbone. The next step is a small hole is now made into the jawbone. The dentist will then place a titanium post into that hole. The surgical site will be sutured closed and you may receive a temporary tooth replacement for several months. This delay is crucial to allow the post to fuse to the bone. After it is determined the post is indeed solid the site is opened back up, an extension or abutment is put on the post to reach the surface and a final, permanent artificial crown is affixed to the abutment. Just like that you have an artificial tooth that looks and acts like a natural tooth.

The Benefits of a Dental Implant

The benefits are numerous. Because the post acts like a tooth root you will feel the pressure sensations when you bite and chew. You will also feel temperature changes between hot and cold. Your speech will be totally natural as well. The truly unseen added benefit is that of the health of your jawbone. The titanium posts help keep the jawbone healthy and deters any atrophy. Of course, there is the quality of your smile as well. A terrifically undervalued asset, your smile is the foundation for your personality. It affects your self-esteem and your self-confidence. This weaves it’s way through your personal life, your social circles and your professional encounters.

Care for your Dental Implant

The dental implant is to be cared for just like a natural tooth. You should continue to brush twice a day for two minutes each time and then floss at least once. By seeing your dentist at least twice a year for evaluations the condition of your dental implant can be monitored and documented at those visits.

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