Dental implants are a type of restorative dentistry treatment used to restore lost teeth. Our staff will examine patients to see if they are good candidates for dental implants. 

These implants enhance dental health as well as any flaws in a smile. They can also be used to replace a single tooth or, in conjunction with a dental bridge, a complete row of teeth.

This article will run you through everything you need to know about dental implants.

Understanding Dental Implants

Dental implants allow patients to have healthy, natural-looking teeth. These prosthetic tooth roots are inserted directly into the jawbone and osseointegrated with the native bone. This bonding serves as a foundation for prosthetic teeth or crowns.

How Do They Work?

The root of a lost tooth is replaced with an artificial screw-like post during dental implant surgery. Dental experts execute this operation in a series of phases. The injured tooth is first extracted, and the jawbone is then prepared for surgery. The implants are surgically implanted into the jawbone to act as the fake tooth’s new root. 

To provide a firm platform for support, the implant must integrate with the bone during a healing process called osseointegration.

During the healing period, professionals will take a series of teeth imprints to custom-make the crowns. The abutment (or the portion that screws into the implant) is put on top of the dental implant to retain and support the crown when the jaw has healed fully. These crowns are created to fit comfortably and match the natural teeth. 

To allow the jaw to recover correctly, the dental implant process might take many months. The implant will not stay in place if the jawbone is not robust enough.

Can You Get a Dental Implant?

Here are some instances that may require dental implants:

• You have one or more missing teeth
• You are unable or unwilling to wear dentures
• You have a strong jawline that can resist the healing process required for dental implants.
• You have a speech impairment that can be alleviated by placing dental implants in your gums

Is There a Limit to How Many Implants You Can Get?

The honest answer is that you can get as many dental implants as you need to replace missing teeth. Each patient has unique needs, and the dental staff can collaborate with them to make a professional choice on the best dental treatment for their oral health. 

The number of implants inserted in a single dental appointment is determined by the healing time. Some patients choose to have all implants removed at once, while others prefer to have many appointments to allow for the necessary recuperation time. 

Finally, getting implants is painless, but there may be some soreness and discomfort after the procedure, especially if multiple teeth are replaced at once.

Do You Need a Bone Grafting?

Sometimes the present jawbone isn’t thick enough or is too soft to support the implant’s post. If this occurs, more bone may be required to be grafted to the implant site for the implant to be effective. 

This is accomplished by bone grafting, where a tiny bone is transplanted to help form a sturdy foundation. 

This bone might come from the lower or upper jawbone, or it could come from somewhere else in the body.

Conclusion

Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and give you a natural-looking smile. The implant is a metal post surgically placed into your jawbone, and then an artificial tooth (or crown) is placed on top of it. 

The whole process can take several months, but it is worth it for the long-term results. Implants are strong and durable and can last a lifetime with proper care.

Are you planning to get a dental implant in Tucson? CFF Dental offers exceptional dental implants to restore your smile. Make an appointment today!