When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are normally thought of as the gold standard since they’re capable of replacing lost pearly whites in terms of look, feel, and functionality. That said, as fantastic as they are, it’s natural to still have questions when considering any type of treatment. Continue reading to learn more about three of the questions you shouldn’t hesitate to ask your dentist during your dental implant consultation; having more knowledge about the treatment can give you the confidence you need to undergo it!
How Do Dental Implants Actually Work?
You might not fully know how dental implants replace your teeth – but it’s crucial to understand the inner workings of your new smile! A dental implant has three main components: the implant post, which is surgically embedded into the jaw, the abutment which attaches to the top of the post, and the custom-made restoration, which goes on top of the abutment and restores the chewing surfaces of the teeth. What gives these replacement teeth their support are the implant posts, since they actually fuse with the jaw tissue through a process called osseointegration. The result is a functional solution that restores biting power, prevents bone resorption, and restores teeth from root to crown!
How Long Will the Process Take?
The dental implant process varies from case to case, since every person has unique needs. Generally speaking, it takes at least several months, since the posts need anywhere from 4 to 6 months to fuse with the jawbone. There is also the possibility that a patient may need to undergo a preliminary procedure, like a dental bone graft or periodontal therapy, to ensure the future success of the implants. These procedures tack on additional months to the total treatment timeline.
How Can I Ensure the Success of My Treatment?
It’s true that dental implants are the closest thing you can get to your natural teeth – but even still, they require a particular amount of care to remain intact for their intended lifespan. You can set them up for a bright future by doing the following:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily.
- Continue to attend your routine dental checkups and cleanings.
- Avoid bad dental habits like smoking or using your teeth as tools.
- Wear a protective mouthguard during sports or physical activities.
Your dentist will be able to provide additional guidelines for you once you’ve received your implants. There’s no reason to go into the dental implant process with any doubts – you’re getting a permanent solution for your tooth loss, so understanding how things work and what the expected timeline is will only make things easier for you in the future!
About the Practice
The team at United Dental Centers of Hammond has proudly served the needs of patients and families in Hammond, IN, and the surrounding area for several years. They offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options, including dental implants for patients looking to rebuild their smiles and restore their quality of life. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with the team to set up a visit, please reach out online or call today for more information. Telephone: (219) 933-4900.