Ask an Experienced Implant Dentist: What Are Dental Implants Like?

An experienced implant dentist is exactly who you want to talk to if you are currently considering getting dental implants. These oral prosthetics are one of the popular ways to replace missing teeth. An implant is a rod or screw — usually made out of titanium — that is fitted into a person's jaw. A crown is placed on the implant to replace the visible part of the missing tooth.

An experienced implant dentist explains dental implants

There are a number of reasons why you might opt for implants over other tooth replacement options. Implants help to preserve the bone tissue loss that occurs when a tooth falls out due to the jawbone not getting the stimulation it needs. Implants are the only tooth replacement option that replaces the root that is lost when a tooth falls out, preserving the patient's bone tissue.

Unfortunately, not all patients are good candidates for dental implants. People with health issues like diabetes might not be healthy enough for the surgical installation of implants. The same goes for smokers and people who consume alcohol regularly.

An ideal candidate for implants should also have enough bone tissue to hold the oral prosthetic in place. Candidates who lack the necessary bone tissue might be able to build theirs up with bone grafts. This can add an additional three months to the time it takes to get implants. The dentist will examine the patient to ensure that they are good candidates for implants before proceeding with the treatments.

The dental implant process

Once the patient has been cleared for dental implants, a date will be set for the installation of the implants. During this procedure, the dentist will administer a shot of local anesthetic so the patient will not feel much. A cut will be made into the gums so the jaw can be reached. The implant is then inserted into a hole that is drilled into the jaw.

The implant is given about six months to fuse with the surrounding bone tissue. Once this process — called osseointegration — is complete, an abutment and a crown will be attached to the implant. The installation of implants can take up to six months for the entire procedure if the patient does not need bone grafts. Once it is complete, the person gets to enjoy benefits such as:

• Implants feel just like real teeth
• Implants are firmly secured in the wearer's mouth
• Implants prevent bone tissue loss
• Implants preventing the remaining real teeth from shifting
• Implants do not need special implants
• Implants can last the rest of the patient's life

Start the process of getting dental implants

Dental mplants are the next best thing to natural teeth. These oral restorations let you go back to how life was before you lost your tooth. Call or visit our Marietta clinic today to start the process and to get any of your questions answered.

Request an appointment here: https://drsykes.com or call Robert S. Sykes, DDS at (770) 873-7241 for an appointment in our Marietta office.

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