There is a lot that a missing tooth can do apart from affecting your smile. Missing a tooth can cause pain when you chew, change the way you talk, or even misalign the rest of your teeth. The answer that people have relied on is the dental implants near Clarkston. Removable dentures cannot be regarded as implants because they are supposed to last permanently.
What Are Implants?
The dental implant is basically a small-sized rod designed to replace the root of the lost tooth. It is made up of titanium most of the times. After fusing with the jawbone, the implant is capable of holding a specially made crown, bridge or denture. In the end, you will have an artificial tooth looking like the original one.
The majority of dental implants are made up of three components; the implant post, the abutment, and the artificial tooth itself. The combination of these three components forms a strong foundation on which new teeth can be placed.
Who is a candidate for an implant?
If you’ve lost one tooth, several teeth, or an entire arch of teeth, dental implants may be an option for you. A good candidate will usually have healthy gums and enough jawbone to support an implant.
For example, a patient who has lost a molar may receive one implant and crown, while a patient missing several teeth in a row may receive an implant-supported bridge. If there is not enough bone volume a bone graft may be recommended before the implant can be placed.
How is this achieved?
The first step is a complete dental exam. Your dentist may take X-rays or 3D images to examine the jawbone, the teeth around it and the space available.
When the implant is ready, the post is then inserted into the jaw bone. Then there is a healing period for the bone to grow to the implant. This is called osseointegration and is very important for a stable foundation. Once healed, the abutment and final restoration may be delivered.
Beyond Beauty Benefits
The implant is anchored in the jaw, and it is not removable like a denture.
Implants also allow you to chew and talk normally. They replace the tooth’s root and they stimulate the bone surrounding them to help prevent bone loss that can occur when teeth are lost.
How to Protect Your Investment
Proper daily care is an important part of maintaining an implant. Brush your teeth twice daily. Floss your teeth when instructed. Regularly check your teeth. Do not chew on your implant with hard objects such as ice or pens.
If you smoke or suffer from gum disease, make sure you discuss this with your dental care professional, as it can affect the healing process and your overall oral health.
The Future of Replacing Teeth
This should be made considering your oral condition, lifestyle and expectations from the procedure. While implants are the perfect option and seem very natural, they may not suit all people. A complete assessment will assist you to make a decision on whether the implant or other restorations such as bridges or dentures will suit you. Providing that all of the correct measures are taken, getting a replacement for a missing tooth is actually an essential way to ensure dental health.
Maddy is the author of this article, if you want to learn about dentist in Clarkston MI you can visit to stannardstudttironidentistry.com