There’s strength in numbers, especially when it comes to your teeth. You need a full set for your mouth to operate properly, and if you lose one, then replacing it is more important than just restoring your smile’s appearance. With the unique ability to replace your lost teeth’s roots, and a success rate of over 95%, dental implants have quickly become the preferred solution to replacing lost teeth.
What are dental implants made of?
As the name suggests, a dental implant is a small device that’s surgically inserted into your jawbone. The secret to their success lies in their biocompatible titanium construction, which allows your jawbone to fuse to the implants’ surfaces as it heals. After about 4-6 months, your dental implant(s) will become a part of your jawbone’s anatomy to provide unmatched support for your dental prosthesis.
What if I already wear dentures or a dental bridge?
Although they’ve revolutionized our approach to rebuilding smiles that have suffered tooth loss, dental implants don’t make conventional replacement teeth obsolete. On the contrary, implants serve to improve traditional replacement teeth by adding the support of a prosthetic root. In addition, your dentures will no longer slip and lose their grip, since they’re stabilized by implants instead of dental adhesives.
Do I have to undergo surgery?
By definition, placing dental implants requires surgery to situate the root devices within the jawbone. If you’ve suffered significant jawbone deterioration, which typically occurs following tooth loss, then you may have to undergo prerequisite surgery, such as a jawbone graft, to restore its density and structural integrity.
Will I have to replace my dental implants after a few years?
The benefits of receiving dental implants extend far beyond more stable replacement teeth; replacing lost teeth roots also helps stem the jawbone deterioration that results from lost teeth roots. Dentures most often slip because of a shrinking jawbone and dental ridge, and frequently require replacement. Dental implants, however, can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Your dental crown, bridge, or denture may require replacement after a decade or two of continuous use, but your new prosthesis can be situated on top of your existing implants.
About Your Livonia Implant Dentist:
James Steward, DDS, and our compassionate staff proudly serve patients of all ages from Livonia, Farmington Hills, Plymouth, Northville, Dearborn Heights, Garden City, and all surrounding communities. To schedule an appointment, call our office today at (734) 425-4400.