Everything You Need To Know About Dental Implants!

A dental implant works to replace the space of a missing tooth (or missing teeth) from the root and upward. It’s an incredible option for those who have lost teeth from injuries, gum diseases, and other dental problems.

While dental implants are considered a wonderful solution, we know they may sound intimidating. Don’t worry, your Hoover dentist has your back! Today, you are going to learn everything you need to know about dental implants so that you can make an educated decision about your oral health (and ease your mind!)

(Don’t worry, there is no reason to fear the dentist!)

What Are Dental Implants?

Like we said above, a dental implant is a space filler for missing teeth and their roots. The ‘root’ is a screw-like titanium alloy piece that will osseointegrate into your jawbone. The tooth is generally sized and shaped out of ceramic materials. It is designed to look like your other teeth, and attached onto the implant using an abutment.

Why Would Anyone Want Dental Implants?

Dentures have long been the solution for missing teeth, but they can be a bigger pain than they are worth. If not properly glued on, dentures can shift and cause pain, or fall out all together, causing great embarrassment. Finally, dentures have to be removed and cleaned after eating.

Dental implants solve a lot of these problems. They will not fall out. They can not shift. They can not get cavities. And finally, they are cleaned as if you were cleaning your regular teeth! Additionally, dental implants look and feel like regular teeth which helps produce proper speech and encourages self-confidence.

How Does The Procedure Work?

A lot has to be determined before dental implants can be placed. This makes the full process a bit lengthy. X-rays and dental exams must be done to conclude that your gums and jawbone are healthy.

After you are cleared for surgery, a treatment plan will be established. The plan will be based on the number of teeth you will be replacing.

The implantation works in two parts. Using either sedation or general or local anesthesia, the dentist will place the implant into the bone. Once the procedure is over, the implant has to integrate with surrounding bone for several months before the ceramic tooth is added. Your Hoover dentist will explain everything you need to know on how to care for your mouth. Healing time takes anywhere from 4-6 months, but lasts a lifetime as long as you take care of it!

Your Hoover Dentist: Barganier & LeCroy DMD

If you live in the area, we would love to be your Hoover dentist. We have helped a number of individuals navigate their own dental implant procedures, and while we love helping our patients restore their dental health, we also take joy in watching renew self-confidence grow within their hearts. Their smiles are truly some of our favorites!