If you’ve lost one or multiple teeth and want the best, most long-lasting form of dental restoration, dental implants are the way to go as they look, function and feel just like natural teeth.
As some of the top dentists in Mesa, Elite Smiles offers safe and reliable dental implant treatment.
But how do our Mesa dental implants work? Let’s take a look.
What Happens After You Lose a Tooth
As the teeth give your gums and jawbone something to grow around, when you lose a tooth these tissues will tend to fall away along with them over time.
When missing teeth cause gum and bone loss, the process of getting dental implants can help—but your dentist needs to make sure you still have the gum and bone tissue to support them.
The interview process for getting dental implants begins with a consultation with your oral surgeon. During this consultation, the oral surgeon will evaluate your mouth to see if you’re a good candidate for dental implants.
If you have lost a significant amount of gum tissue and jaw bone, you will need bone grafting done before you can get dental implants so that your mouth can actually support them.
On the other hand, if your dentist confirms that you are a good candidate for tooth replacement, it’s just a matter of setting up an appointment.
What Is a Dental / Tooth Implant?
A dental implant is a titanium or ceramic screw that is inserted into your jawbone to serve as the root of a tooth. An abutment, which is a connector piece, is then placed on top of the implant. Finally, a dental crown or artificial tooth is placed on top of the abutment.
The screw part of the dental implant is what actually fuses to your jawbone during the healing process. This gives dental implants their stability so that they feel and function just like regular new teeth.
What Is the Dental Implants Procedure Like?
The dental implant process is fairly straightforward. Dental implants are installed in a surgical procedure that is usually done under local anesthesia. First, your oral surgeon will make an incision in your gums so that they can access your jawbone. Next, they will place the implant into your jawbone and close the incision with stitches.
The Healing Process
After your dental implants are installed, you will need to wait for them to heal before the final restoration can be placed. This healing process usually takes several months. During this time, your jawbone will fuse to the titanium screw part of the dental implant.
Your dentist will fix you with temporary crowns while you wait for the healing process to complete.
Once your implant has healed, you will need to return to your oral surgeon so that they can place the abutment on top of the implant. Finally, they will place the permanent, artificial tooth or crown on top of the abutment.
Aftercare for Dental Implants
It is important to take good care of your new teeth to ensure that they last for many years. Be sure to brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and checkups. Avoid biting or chewing on hard objects, as this can damage your implant. If you play sports, be sure to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from injury.
With proper care, dental implants can last for decades. Although they are artificial teeth, with good oral hygiene habits and regular dental visits, you can enjoy your new smile for years to come!
Conclusion
Implant dentistry is the best method of providing a replacement tooth. Implant placement is safe and effective when done by a professional dentist. Taking care of your permanent replacement teeth is identical to taking care of your natural teeth to avoid dental decay and gum disease. A bone graft may be necessary before this procedure.
If you think you are a good candidate, contact us for a consultation!
