Choosing a tooth replacement method is a big decision. Your options will vary depending on the condition of your mouth, but you want to make a selection that will be comfortable and dependable. Losing a tooth creates a missing tooth gap, which can affect oral health if not replaced. This will allow you to function with confidence while dealing with your tooth loss.
Dental implants not only restore your smile but also help prevent bone loss by maintaining jawbone density, which is a common issue after losing a tooth.
When considering tooth replacement options, you may also hear about bridges. Bridges are used to span the gap left by missing teeth and are anchored to adjacent teeth or implants, but unlike dental implants, they do not integrate with the jawbone.
Dental implants contribute to a healthy smile and support overall oral wellness.
You’re Not Alone
For some people, it’s hard to come to terms with the idea of using tooth replacements. You should understand that you’re not alone. Millions of Americans deal with tooth loss every year, often as a result of a damaged tooth due to injury or decay. You should also know that tooth replacement methods are more advanced, successful, and realistic-looking than they’ve ever been before.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small metal rods, usually made from titanium, that are designed to function as a base for replacement teeth. A dental implant system includes an abutment, which connects the implant to the artificial tooth. The implants are engineered to be highly durable and safe for use in your mouth. They’re surgically inserted into the jaw, where a connection forms between the implant and the bone to ensure stability and support for the artificial tooth, making them incredibly strong.
Dental implants can be used for individual teeth as well as entire sets of anchored dentures. Crowns, which serve as the artificial teeth, are attached to the implants. Because of the extremely low risk of complications from the metal itself, you can have several rods implanted easily wherever you need them, for a customized fit that will provide support for your artificial teeth.
Dental Implant Surgery
Dental implant surgery is a precise procedure that replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth designed to look and function just like your natural teeth. The process starts with the surgical insertion of a titanium dental implant into your jawbone, where it acts as a sturdy tooth root. This implant is placed under local anesthesia or sedation, ensuring you remain comfortable and relaxed throughout the procedure.
During the surgery, your dentist or oral surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the jawbone. The implant is then carefully positioned in the bone, and the gum is closed over the implant site. Over the next several months, a process called osseointegration takes place, where the surrounding bone fuses with the implant, providing strong support for your new tooth.
In some cases, if the jawbone isn’t thick or strong enough to support the implant, bone grafting may be recommended. This involves adding bone material to the implant site to create a solid foundation for the implant. Bone grafts can come from your own body or a donor source, and they help ensure the long-term success of your dental implant.
Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone, your dentist will attach a custom-made crown or bridge to the implant. This final restoration is designed to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, restoring both function and appearance. With proper care, dental implants can last for many years, providing a permanent solution to tooth loss.
While dental implant surgery is generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential risks such as infection, implant failure, or injury to surrounding teeth or gum tissue. Choosing an experienced dentist or surgeon and following all after-care instructions can greatly reduce these risks and help ensure a smooth healing process.
Nashville dental implants offer a reliable and natural-looking way to replace missing teeth, giving you the freedom to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. From the initial consultation to the final placement of your crown or bridge, the dental implant process is designed to deliver lasting results and a healthier, happier smile.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
There are many reasons why dental implants are such a good choice for many Americans. First and foremost, they are a flexible solution for people with all levels of dental problems. Each patient receives a personalized treatment plan to ensure the best possible outcome. Other benefits of dental implants include:
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Fast Most of us hate spending time in a dentist’s chair. Dental implants can be installed very quickly. In fact, you can get an entire new set of teeth in just one day. Some procedures may require multiple visits, but the process is streamlined for the patient.
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Realistic Dental implants use specially designed prosthetic teeth that are just like the real thing.
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Better Dentures are designed to be removed for cleaning. This also means they can slip and irritate the mouth. Implants fuse to your jaw bone and become permanent, so there’s no discomfort. Dental implants also reduce pain and discomfort compared to removable dentures.
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Improved Slipping or poor-fitting dentures can make it difficult to speak without mumbling or slurring. You don’t have either of those problems with dental implants.
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Natural Certain foods are difficult or even impossible to eat with dentures. Dental implants are so secure and comfortable that you can enjoy all your favorite foods. During the initial healing period, it is important to eat soft foods to help your gums and bone heal.
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More If you’re self-conscious about your smile, dental implants can give you a huge confidence boost. Imagine having a perfect smile in just a day.
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Higher Dental implants are permanent. When taken care of, they last the rest of your life.
If you’re ready to let dental implants change your life, give us a call. We’d love to give you your smile back. Contact our practice for more information about dental implant procedures and how we can help you heal comfortably and effectively.
