Dental implants are an increasingly popular choice for people who have lost a tooth or teeth and are looking for a replacement. The key factor with dental implants is that, looked after properly, they can last a lifetime. This means that you can continue to live as though you were using your own teeth – without worrying about them sliding about or having to avoid your favorite foods.
How do Dental Implants Work?
A dental implant is a titanium post that is inserted into the jaw bone where the root of your tooth would have been. As the jaw bone heals over the following 6 – 12 weeks, it seals around the post, securing it into place. This is the key to making implants feel just like your real teeth, and in some cases you may be able to receive temporary replacement teeth while you wait for your implants to be created. Once the post is set, a small connector post called an abutment is added so that the implant can be secured.
Because the dental implant is secured to the bone, your implants will feel as secure as your natural teeth feel. The main benefit of that is that you won’t need to worry about your teeth moving and you will be able to eat as usual.
Do Dental Implants Match Your Original Teeth?
Absolutely! Our dentists will make sure that your new implants will be a good fit and match your existing teeth for your comfort, providing a familiar feeling bite. To get the right shape, we will first take an impression of the existing teeth and make a note of their color. We’ll do everything we can to match the shade of your existing teeth (although you should keep this in mind when considering whitening treatments in the future).
Dental implants also are similar to your teeth in that you should look after them in exactly the same way, by brushing carefully twice a day. There is no need for you to use any particular products or chemicals and you don’t need to take implants out to soak.
What are the Main Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are great because they make life a lot easier for you but there are a few main benefits of dental implants you probably won’t get with dentures. For starters, because dental implants are fixed, you won’t need to worry about your teeth slipping when you eat or speak. They behave exactly in the same way as your real teeth. This is a huge improvement over dentures; where many people find themselves mumbling or covering their mouths because they are embarrassed.
This, in turn, affects your self-esteem. When you are confident that your teeth will stay put, your self-confidence will grow and you won’t have to shy away from public conversation anymore. And, as you get used to your new teeth, their permanence will quickly persuade you that they are your own. This will give you greater confidence in your appearance too.
Since there are no tooth replacement options that are as permanent as dental implants, this is a great option to consider if you’ve experienced tooth loss. Call our office to make your appointment today: (763) 682-9796.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-implants#1
https://hansondental.com/dental_implants/
https://www.perio.org/consumer/dental-implants
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