There are many reasons why people might be missing teeth, and they vary depending on the individual. For some, their teeth might be too weak to support a Robina Dental crown, while others may have lost their teeth as a result of disease or trauma. Regardless of the reason, missing or damaged teeth can cause several problems in the future.
Implants are a great way to replace teeth that have been lost, as they look and feel like natural ones. They also improve overall oral health by preventing bone loss.
Unlike dentures, which are removable and require daily care, dental implants are fixed in place and fuse naturally with your jawbone, so they won’t shift around when you talk, eat or smile.
They are designed to last a lifetime with proper hygiene. To maximize your implant’s longevity and effectiveness, you need to commit to caring for it properly with routine oral hygiene visits, healthy diet and regular tooth brushing and flossing.
Your jawbone must have reached full growth to be able to support an implant. This is typically achieved at age 18 for females and a little later for males.
It’s essential that you understand the process of osseointegration, which is the bonding of your implant with your bone. It can take months to complete this, so patients should be prepared for a lengthy healing period.
The first step is to have an evaluation of your gums and bones. The dentist will use x-rays, photographs and other imaging techniques to confirm that you have adequate bone density for dental implants. If you’re lacking in this area, your dentist can suggest a bone graft to help restore the necessary bone tissue for the implants.
A well-planned and individualized treatment plan for implants should ensure that you can get the smile you want and maintain it with minimal hassle. While some patients can get their implants and replacement teeth all in one appointment, most will need to wait a few months for their implants to fully integrate with their bone.
For patients with significant bone loss, they may need to undergo a bone graft or sinus lift procedure in order to get their implants placed. This is an option that your dentist can discuss with you during a consultation or as a treatment extension at your next checkup.
You’ll have an opportunity to ask your dentist any questions that you may have about the implants and their process. Then, you can decide if this is the right treatment for you.
If you are missing teeth and think you may be a candidate for dental implants, schedule an appointment at our Colorado Springs dental office today. Our experienced team will evaluate your dental needs and answer any questions you might have about your options.
Our office is proud to offer the advanced technology and knowledge that make dental implants safe, durable and effective. We will work with you to find a solution that’s right for your smile and your lifestyle.