Here’s a quick educational article on Dental Implants from Fresno Dental Studio. Are you afraid to smile in public because you think all people can see is that gap in your teeth? Do you have a bridge that keeps breaking or a partial that keeps slipping? If so, there is a solution to your tooth problems that can prevent you from ever having to worry about unsightly gaps again: dental implants.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into the jaw so that a tooth can be attached to it. An implant can be used to replace just one tooth or multiple teeth. In fact, an entire set of teeth can be attached to two or more artificial roots, mimicking natural teeth and making you feel as if you were born with them.
What is the procedure?
This surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis. First, an incision is made into the gum to expose the bone. Next, holes are drilled into the bone, and a cylinder, usually made of titanium, is implanted into the hole. You must wait until the jawbone grows around this new “root,” which can take two to six months. A temporary tooth can be placed while you are waiting for the rods to anchor themselves into the bone. After your healing is complete, an artificial tooth is attached to the rod.
What are the advantages of implants over dentures or bridges?
- No work is required on the adjacent teeth.
- They are inserted into the bone and act like natural teeth, ensuring normal speech, chewing, and appearance.
- Unlike dentures, they stimulate the jawbone continuously like real teeth, thus preserving bone density.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
If you are in good general health and have no serious tooth or gum issues, you can have dental implants placed. You will need adequate bone tissue in your jaw to have this procedure, but problems in this area will not necessarily rule you out, as you may be able to have bone grafting to rebuild the tissue.
If you need one or more teeth replaced or would like to learn about other cosmetic dentistry options, call Drs. Alex Denes and Claudia Denes today at (559) 297-1800. Fresno Dental Studio happily serves patients in Fresno, Clovis, Sanger, Mendota, Orange Cove, Reedley, Selma, and the surrounding areas.