Dental Implants
If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants might be a great option. Not only do implants improve your appearance and your ability to chew, but implants also plays a vital role in supporting the surrounding teeth. When a tooth is missing, the other teeth can shift from their place. Plus, since dental implants are fused directly into the jawbone, they won’t damage the existing teeth the way a bridge or denture can.
A dentist from Alpine Woods Family Dental will be happy to meet with you to evaluate your situation and help you decide if you should consider a dental implant.
Common Questions About Dental Implants
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant consists of three parts. First is a titanium post that is attached to your jaw and acts like the tooth’s root. When the post is securely attached to the jaw, an abutment is placed on top of the post. Finally, a crown or cap, which looks like a real tooth, is secured over the abutment.
Is a dental implant better than a bridge?
The answer varies from person to person so the dentist will answer that question based on your situation. For some people, an implant might be the better option since an implant last much longer than a bridge and it helps to preserve natural bone growth. Plus, implants look more natural and require no extra maintenance.
When is the best age to get an implant?
Children are advised to wait until they have stopped growing. Otherwise, anyone can get an implant. There is no age limit, providing the patient is healthy.
How long does a dental implant last?
For patients who brush and floss daily, a dental implant can last 25 years or longer. The most important thing a patient can do to keep their dental implant as long as possible is to keep their gums healthy by practicing good oral hygiene.
Will my dental implant match my existing teeth?
Yes. The dentist will match the size and color of the implant to match your original teeth, making it impossible to look at your mouth and notice which tooth is the implant.
Must I make an appointment for my dentist to check my implant?
When you go for your routine dental checkup, the dentist will check of the health of the implant. There is no need to make a special trip to the dentist for your implant once the procedure has been completed.
How long does it take to get an implant?
The length of time varies for each person for various reasons. If the existing tooth needs to be extracted, if you are having more than one implant and, how strong the bone structure is around the tooth that is being replaced by the implant all factor into the exact length of time it will take. It’s important to let your gum heal after every step of the process, which means it usually takes many months to complete the entire process.