Dental implants are artificial roots designed to replace missing teeth and support dentures. They're typically made from strong materials such as titanium, ceramic, or biological materials like bone or tissue.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a type of artificial root that replaces missing teeth. They're designed to mimic the natural shape and size of a tooth's root, providing stability and support for an attached denture or bridge. The implant acts as an anchor in the jawbone, helping to preserve bone structure and prevent bone loss around the socket.
Traditional options such as bridges or dentures rest on top of the gum line, which can lead to problems with slippage, comfort, and oral hygiene. Implants, on the other hand, are embedded directly into the jawbone and provide a sturdier, more comfortable foundation for your new teeth.
The most common material used in dental implants is titanium due to its strength and compatibility with the human body. However, some newer models have started to use ceramic or biological materials, such as bone or tissue grafts, to improve biocompatibility and cosmetic appeal.
Why Are Dental Implants Needed?
Dental implants are typically recommended in cases of severe tooth loss, where multiple teeth need replacement. They're also needed in cases of gum disease, which can result in loose or lost teeth. Additionally, some people opt for dental implants as a cosmetic solution to improve the appearance of their smile.
Besides providing better aesthetics and function compared to dentures or bridges, dental implants offer another significant advantage: they help preserve jawbone structure. When you lose teeth, your body begins to reabsorb the surrounding bone in a process called resorption. Dental implants stimulate bone growth and prevent this bone loss, helping maintain facial shape and structure over time.
How Are Dental Implants Placed?
-Your dentist will begin by assessing your jawbone to ensure there's enough depth and width to support the implant. In some cases, a bone graft may be necessary if your bone density is too low.
-Next, they'll make an incision in your gum line to access the underlying bone. Using specialized tools, they will carefully remove a small amount of bone from the socket, creating space for the implant.
-Once the space is prepared, your dentist will insert the metal screw-like implant into the jawbone. This part is called the fixture and serves as the foundation for the new tooth.
-After the fixture is placed, the gum tissue will be stitched back together, leaving the implant completely covered and allowing it to heal over the next few months. During this time, your jawbone will grow around the implant in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong bond.
-Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone (usually after 3-6 months), your dentist will attach an abutment – a small post that connects the fixture to the new tooth. A custom-made dental crown is then placed on top of the abutment, completing the process.
What Can You Expect After Dental Implant Surgery?
Immediately after surgery, you can expect some swelling and discomfort around the surgical site. This is normal and usually subsides within a week or two. Your dentist will likely prescribe pain medication to help manage any postoperative pain.
In the meantime, it's important to take care of the surgical area as it heals. This includes rinsing with salt water to keep the site clean and avoiding smoking or alcohol consumption, which can slow down the healing process and increase your risk of infection.
Once fully healed (usually after 3-6 months), your new dental implant should function just like a natural tooth. You'll be able to chew and speak without discomfort or difficulty, and with proper care, your implant can last a lifetime.
Why choose My Family Dental Mokena for Implants?
At My Family Dental Mokena, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality dental care in a friendly and comfortable environment. Our team of experienced dentists uses state-of-the-art technology to ensure accurate diagnosis and precise treatment planning.
When it comes to dental implants, our skilled professionals have extensive experience placing and restoring implants. We work closely with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and preferences, ensuring the best possible outcome.
Don't let missing teeth hold you back from enjoying your life to the fullest. Schedule an appointment with My Family Dental Mokena today and start your journey towards a healthier, more confident smile.
A dental implant is an artificial root designed to replace missing teeth. It's typically made from strong materials such as titanium, ceramic, or biological materials like bone or tissue. Dental implants are used when traditional options like bridges or dentures aren't suitable for a patient's needs.
At My Family Dental Mokena, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality dental care in a friendly and comfortable environment. Our team of experienced dentists uses state-of-the-art technology to ensure accurate diagnosis and precise treatment planning. We work closely with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and preferences, ensuring the best possible outcome.
Dental implants stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss around the socket. When you lose teeth, your body begins to reabsorb the surrounding bone in a process called resorption. Dental implants help preserve jawbone structure by providing a sturdier, more comfortable foundation for your new teeth.
The most common material used in dental implants is titanium due to its strength and compatibility with the human body. However, some newer models have started to use ceramic or biological materials, such as bone or tissue grafts, to improve biocompatibility and cosmetic appeal.
Immediately after surgery, you can expect some swelling and discomfort around the surgical site. This is normal and usually subsides within a week or two. Your dentist will likely prescribe pain medication to help manage any post-operative pain. In the meantime, it's important to take care of the surgical area as it heals by rinsing with salt water to keep the site clean and avoiding smoking or alcohol consumption.
Once fully healed (usually after 3-6 months), your new dental implant should function just like a natural tooth. You'll be able to chew and speak without discomfort or difficulty, and with proper care, your implant can last a lifetime.
The integration process of a dental implant with the jawbone, also known as osseointegration, usually takes 3-6 months. During this time, your jawbone will grow around the implant in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong bond.
There are several types of dental implants available for different purposes. Some common types include:
Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional options like bridges or dentures. They provide better aesthetics and function, with more stability and support for the new teeth. Additionally, they help preserve jawbone structure and prevent bone loss around the socket.
Dental implants are typically recommended in cases of severe tooth loss, where multiple teeth need replacement. They're also needed in cases of gum disease, which can result in loose or lost teeth. Additionally, some people opt for dental implants as a cosmetic solution to improve the appearance of their smile.
Yes, it's essential to visit My Family Dental Mokena for regular check-ups and cleanings to ensure the long-term health of your dental implants. Our team will monitor the progress of your osseointegration and address any potential issues that may arise.