What Are Dental Implants? A Beginner’s Guide

what are dental implants a beginners guide

Dental implants are durable and permanent methods of replacing missing teeth.  They will serve as replacements for the missing teeth, assisting chewing and speaking, and they also play a part in maintaining the health of the jawbone. A dental implants near you is basically a small post that the dentist will insert surgically into the jawbone; most implants are made from titanium. The bone slowly grows into place and fuses with the implant over time, which makes it stable. A crown that looks just like a natural tooth is then placed.

Why Are Dental Implants Important?

When you lose a tooth, the surrounding teeth tend to move and create issues with your bite. The missing teeth may also result in the loss of the jawbone, which changes the face’s shape. Additionally, dental implants prevent jawbone loss and maintain the strength of the jawbone. They also resemble real teeth as much as possible and feel just like them, making it easy for you to eat and talk.

Who Can Get Dental Implants?

Healthy adults with missing teeth are mostly candidates for dental implants. There are a couple of things that may influence the success of the procedure, however, including:

  • Healthy Gums – The gums need to be infection-free, such as gum disease.
  • Strong Jawbone – The jaw needs to be thick enough to support the implant.
  • Good Oral Hygiene – Brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits maintain implants healthy.
  • No Smoking – Smoking will affect healing, and smoking can lead to the failure of an implant.

You will be assessed by a dentist, and X-rays will be taken to determine if dental implants could be right for you.

The Dental Implant Surgery Process

Obtaining a dental implant is a complicated process. It could take a few months because the implant takes time to integrate with the jawbone. This is what occurs:

  • Consultation and Planning – The dentist looks at your mouth and takes X-rays to examine your jawbone.
  • Placing the Implant – The dentist does dental implant surgery by placing the implant into your jawbone. A small incision is made in the gum to insert the implant. After doing this, the bone will begin growing around the implant.
  • Healing Time – This will take a few months since the implant begins to fuse to the bone. The dentist can provide a temporary tooth in the meantime.
  • Adding the Abutment – Once the implant is stable, a small connector known as an abutment is placed to the implant.
  • Crowning the Abutment – A custom-made crown is fitted over the abutment. The crown is of the same colour and shape as your natural teeth.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer many advantages over other missing teeth solutions:

  • Natural Appearance and Function – Implants look like real teeth and work the same way.
  • Longevity – Implants can last a lifetime with proper maintenance.
  • Prevents Bone Loss – The implant maintains the jawbone’s health and prevents it from shrinking.
  • No Damage to Other Teeth – Implants do not need adjacent teeth to be shaved, as bridges do.
  • Improves Chewing and Speaking – You can eat any food without concern, and speaking is simpler.

How to Take Care of Dental Implants?

Dental implants are cared for the same way as natural teeth:

  • Brush at least Twice Day – Brush using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss Daily – Floss near the implant to remove food and plaque.
  • Schedule Regular Check-ups with a Dentist – Regular check-ups help maintain your gums and implants.
  • Do Not Chew Hard Objects – Chewing on hard objects such as ice or hard candy will cause the crown to break.

Are There Any Risks?

Dental implants are successful, but like any procedure, there can be a risk of some kind of complication, such as:

  • Infection – If not cleaned properly, an infection can develop.
  • Implant Failure – In rare cases, the implant won’t bond with the bone.
  • Nerve or Sinus Problems – If placed incorrectly, the implant can affect nearby nerves or sinuses.

A qualified dentist will place the implant correctly and advise you on how to keep it in a healthy condition.

Key Takeaway

Dental implants are among the finest alternatives to missing teeth. They’re durable, natural, and stable for your jawbone. If you have missing teeth and want a long-term solution, talk to your dentist about dental implant surgery. They can help determine if it’s the right option for you.

Reclaim Your Smile with Dental Implants Today!

At Millwoods Dental Choice, we restore your confidence with dental implants. Our caring team of dentist in Millwoods offers individualized care to make you feel relaxed and satisfied. We use advanced technology to create natural-looking implants that blend seamlessly with your smile. From a single tooth replacement to multiple teeth replacements, we are here to guide you. Don’t wait any longer—restore your smile today! Call us to learn more about dental implants and our services.

825-602-5584