If you have lost a permanent tooth you may feel uneasy about smiling. Fortunately, you can replace one or more lost teeth. In fact, you can receive a replacement tooth that looks and functions like a natural tooth. Dental implants can last for decades and replace both the root and crown of a tooth. What are dental implants?
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Question: How does tooth loss impact my health?
Answer: Your body immediately takes note of a missing tooth and responds by suspending the flow of key nutrients to the jaw, causing the jawbone around the tooth to dissolve. Patients can then appear older and even suffer from further tooth loss. As you lose teeth you may have difficulty eating or being understood when speaking.
Question: What are implants?
Answer: Dental implants are made from titanium, a biocompatible metal that bonds with the bone tissue and replaces the missing root. This also prevents the loss of jawbone density as the body recognizes the post as a natural root and resumes the flow of nutrients to the jawbone.
Question: How are they placed?
Answer: After finding the most appropriate area for placement the post will be surgically placed. Through the process of osseointegration the bone will bond with the post. Afterward, an abutment will be added to the post to support a restoration, which replaces the visible part of the tooth.
Question: What are the benefits?
Answer: Dental implants last longer than other prosthetic options, such as dental bridges or dentures, often remaining in place for up to 25 years. In addition, they are easy to care for. You simply brush and floss as you would before. In addition, the crowns that restore the implants are made from ceramic, a lifelike material that mimics the appearance of enamel.
ABOUT YOUR WACO, TX, DENTIST:
We look forward to providing families with exceptional care and advanced treatment options. To schedule an appointment with Corbet C. Locke, DDS, contact our Waco, TX, dental office today by calling 254-776-4888. Our office welcomes patients in and around Waco, TX, including Hewitt, McGregor, Woodway, and the surrounding Central Texas communities.