Want to learn more about dental implants? Here we’ll explain some FAQs about dental implants including what they are, how they work, their benefits, and how they’re placed.

What Are Dental Implants?

Let’s start at the very beginning. Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth so you can have the smile of your dreams. They are appliances that serve as replacement tooth roots and are a great long term option. Dental implants are metal frames or posts that are surgically placed into your jawbone to create a strong foundation for both permanent and removable false teeth to be mounted or attached on top. With natural-looking artificial teeth, you won’t be able to distinguish which teeth are real and which aren’t.

How Do Dental Implants Compare to Other Tooth Replacement Options?

Dental implants are sturdy, permanent supports for artificial teeth. After they’ve been surgically placed, the implants bond with your jawbone. If you have missing teeth but don’t solve the problem with dental implants you might use traditional bridges, which have to be attached to teeth on either side of where the missing tooth is located. This means a lot of grinding down the teeth that are going to hold the bridge and false tooth in place. Dentures are another option for replacing missing teeth, but these are often not very comfortable and can even slip around in your mouth.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Beyond the advantages of dental implants to traditional bridges or dentures, there are a number of other benefits. Dental implants won’t move around when you’re eating or talking and they often feel more natural than alternatives. They also look a lot more natural because the dental implant basically acts as a tooth root upon which a fake tooth can be placed. Because of this, you feel much better about yourself and your self-esteem increases greatly. Dental implants are also incredibly durable and can last for many years, even a lifetime if properly cared for with good oral health habits such as brushing twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and eating a healthy diet low in sugar and carbohydrates. Additionally, dental implants allow you to clean your teeth easily and keep your oral health in great shape.

How Are Dental Implants Placed?

The first step is to come in to make sure that you are a candidate for dental implants. If so, we’ll schedule an appointment to surgically place the implant into your jawbone. After the procedure, you’ll have to eat soft foods while you heal. While you’re healing, the bone will grow around the implant to hold it in place. This can take up to several months. Once the bone has grown around the dental implant, it’s time to place the artificial teeth. Each tooth is customized specifically for you so that it matches the color, shape, and size of your other teeth so it blends in seamlessly with your other teeth.