Dental implants are a shining example of the amazing progression made in the dental industry in recent years! This advancement in technology has made it possible for millions of people worldwide to build a smile they love. Many people have heard of dental implants in passing, but might not be informed on exactly what they are. At Summer Dental, we can provide more information on dental implants, treatment options and what you can expect if you are considering having a dental implant placed.
Dental Implants Explained
A dental implant is a titanium device that is placed directly into the bone in order to replace a missing tooth in the mouth. The titanium device is selected by the dentist to fit perfectly inside the patient’s bone to most closely mimic the structure of a natural tooth.
Placing the implant into the bone provides a close imitation of the way a natural tooth sits in the bone, preventing the degeneration of bone. Once a tooth is removed from the mouth, the bone that once surrounded the tooth begins to recede. When allowed to progress, the bone loss has the potential to cause the looseness or eventual loss of other teeth. For this reason, it is important to preserve the bone structure. Dental implants provide the perfect solution to this issue!
How Are Dental Implants Placed?
The procedure behind placing dental implants may seem a bit intimidating and complicated at first! However, with the treatment and guidance at Summer Dental, the process of getting a dental implant can be simple and relatively painless.
Before beginning treatment, a 3D bone scan will be conducted in order to determine if the patient has enough bone structure to hold a dental implant. If the dentist is confident in the bone’s ability to support the placement of an implant, the patient will be scheduled to return for the placement procedure.
The dentist makes a small incision in the gums and places the implant in the bone. Dental implants are screw-like devices with ridges that ensure a sturdy placement that will not budge. A healing cap is placed over the top of the implant, and after a brief healing period, the patient will return to have a crown placed over the implant. The crown is designed to perfectly mimic a natural tooth. Once the crown is placed, the tooth that has been restored using implant technology is virtually impossible to recognize with the naked eye.
Are Dental Implants Right For You?
Going forward with the information you learned here, you will be able to better understand dental implants. Depending on your oral healthcare goals, the dentist and staff at Summer Dental can help you determine if dental implants are a good treatment option for you. The team at Summer Dental will ensure you are as informed on the subject as possible, and will help you design a treatment plan that works best for you. Call or text Summer Dental today to schedule your appointment!
