Following is some helpful information about this revolutionary tooth replacement option.
How Dental Implants Work
Dental implants are titanium posts used to replace the roots of lost teeth. This is accomplished by embedding the titanium post into the jawbone. Since titanium is compatible with mineralized tissue in the body, the bone surrounding the implant will fuse to and around it, holding it in place permanently. Once the implant is stable, it will support a prosthetic such as a crown to complete the restoration of a missing tooth.
In addition to being durable and long lasting, implants do not require cumbersome maintenance. Unlike dentures, which are removed for overnight soaking, implants stay in your mouth. In fact, dental implants are cleaned the same way that biological teeth are cleaned. You will brush and floss your implants along with your natural teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Since dental implants support the entire oral health system, they offer some unique advantages when compared to other types of prosthetic teeth. Implants protect the jawbone against bone atrophy, the process where the body resorbs bone mass. Since the jawbone firmly anchors the implant, patients can enjoy full oral function that includes eating a variety of food. Unlike dentures, which are prone to movement, dental implants will not budge.
If patients choose tooth-colored materials such as porcelain for their dental crowns or bridges, dental implant restorations can appear very much like biological teeth. In fact, porcelain is very difficult to distinguish from natural tooth structure.
To learn more about your tooth replacement options, call our office to schedule a consultation with our oral surgeon.