A bright, confident smile is aesthetically pleasing and crucial for oral health. Do you have missing teeth or uncomfortable dentures? Dental implants might be the solution you’ve been searching for. A dental implant is a titanium nail that replaces a tooth when it fails. It is positioned into the jawbone, much like a tooth root. Losing teeth can cause people to feel self-conscious about smiling or speaking. Dental implants in Gresham can provide the strength and stability needed to eat all your favorite foods without struggling to chew. Additionally, they stimulate and maintain jaw bone, prevent bone loss, and support facial features.
Let’s explore the ideal timing for considering dental implants and the compelling reasons why they contribute to a healthier, happier smile.
Dental implants are used to substitute lost teeth. Dental implants can support crowns that replace single teeth, and bridges restore several lost teeth and even dentures in edentulous patients. Implants are generally manufactured from titanium, a metal compatible with body tissues and able to bond with adjacent bone during healing.
The elements of implants:
A dental implant is essentially a zirconia / Titanium screw or cylinder between 4mm and 16mm long, which is inserted into a prepared bony socket in the jaw and acts as a replacement tooth for a missing tooth. A unique attachment called an abutment is fitted to the top of the implant forms and the external connection to the replacement tooth. Once the implant has been positioned in the jaw, it must heal before the crowns can be added. During this healing, which can take two to six months, the surface of the implant fuses with surrounding bones. A process known as osseointegration, once this process is finished, the implant is stable enough to support one or more teeth. Furthermore, when the implant has excellent stability, the dentist can put a temporary crown on it, called immediate loading. When planning implant placement, ask your dentist if you are a candidate for these procedures.
The stages of implant procedures:
Examination:
After discussing the treatment options that are suitable for you, your dentist will conduct a thorough physical examination of your mouth, will take x-rays and CBCT scans of your jaws to assess the shape and condition of your jawbone and locate the position of essential structures such as nerves and sinus, which may be close to the intended implant site. This allows the dentist to plan precisely how the implant is placed.
Insertion of dental implants:
Implant surgery can occur in one or two stages, depending on your circumstances. In both cases, the surgery involves making a small incision in the gum to expose and then using particular drills to prepare the implant bed in which implants are inserted.
Preparation of teeth and impression:
When your gums have fully healed, your dentist will take a new impression of your mouth. This will be used to make a model of your teeth on which a dental technician will construct your crown or bridge to achieve a natural finish that matches the rest of your natural teeth.
Fitting of crowns and bridges:
When your new crowns or bridges have been prepared, your affordable dentist in Gresham will screw them onto abutments over the dental implants. Check that they fit well and look good. Also, check that your upper and lower teeth work together comfortably when you bite. You will typically need to attend multiple review appointments to ensure that the implants are stable and functioning well and that you are delighted with the final results.
In conclusion, considering dental implants at the right time can lead to a healthier, more confident smile as you weigh your options for tooth replacement. With advancements in dental technology and a focus on individualized care, dental implants offer a reliable and durable solution to restore oral health and well-being. If you’re ready to take the next step towards a brighter smile, consult your dentist to explore the possibilities of dental implants tailored to your unique needs.