Dental Implants in Warren, OH - Snelson & Snelson, DDS
Dental implants are considered by most dentists to be the longest lasting, most durable, and most attractive replacements for missing teeth. Before development of dental implants, dentures were the only alternative to replacing a missing tooth or teeth. Now, by replacing the root of a missing tooth as well as the crown, dental implants are the closest restoration to a natural tooth. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry has stated that implants are the “next best thing to healthy, natural teeth.” Rooted in your jaw, implants are also unlikely to need replacement in your lifetime.
Snelson & Snelson, DDS provides high quality dental implants to restore your smile. Implants are usually made of a synthetic yet biocompatible material like metal or ceramic and are so well designed that they mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. Not everyone is a candidate for implants, however. For a successful implant to take hold, a candidate must have proper bone density and a strong immune system. In all cases, dental implants require strict oral hygiene and proper care to ensure they last a long time.
Implant Procedure
Surgery is necessary to prepare the area for a dental implant and to place the implant in the mouth. Patients are administered anesthesia and, if necessary, antibiotics to stave off infection post-procedure. Following the procedure, a period of time is required for the implant to take hold and for bone tissue to build up and anchor the device. In some cases, metal posts are inserted into the implant during a follow-up procedure to connect the tooth.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
The bottom part of the implant, which looks like a screw, is placed in your jaw during a simple in-office procedure. The screw is made of titanium, a material that is biocompatible, meaning your body won’t reject it. In fact, over time your body will grow more bone to fuse with the dental implant. The implant screw becomes firmly embedded in your bone and won’t move.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Unlike other dental restorations, implants are designed to be permanent. Dental implants can last through your lifetime and are made to resist stain and decay. Once they have healed successfully, they are virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth. Like natural teeth, they require meticulous oral hygiene, regular dental exams, and professional cleanings to help prevent infections and gum disease.
Implants are the only restoration that help to prevent bone loss in your gums. An implant can be used to replace a single tooth, or a set of dentures — with just a few implants! If you are in good overall health and have enough bone density, dental implants may be a good option for you.
Another important benefit of dental implants is that they also help you retain the youthful fullness and contours of your face, especially your firm jawline. Your body produces more bone to fuse with the implant and the increased bone production fills out your facial contours. You won’t have the sunken, sagging look of someone who wears dentures for a long time.