Dental Implants can Improve Your Quality of Life
Posted on 1/15/2025 by Durham Prosthodontics Office |
 Have you ever felt embarrassed by a missing tooth or teeth? Do you struggle to chew your food properly? If you answered yes to these questions, dental implants may be the solution for you.
Dental implants are a permanent, artificial tooth root that is surgically placed into your jawbone. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants offer numerous advantages over other tooth-replacement options, such as dentures and bridges.
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Improved Appearance: Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. This can boost your confidence and self-esteem, allowing you to smile without hesitation.
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Enhanced Function: Dental implants are firmly anchored in the jawbone, allowing you to eat, drink, and talk naturally. You will not have to worry about your teeth slipping or clicking, and you will be able to enjoy all your favorite foods again.
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Preservation of Bone: Unlike other tooth-replacement options, dental implants help preserve your jawbone. When a tooth is missing, the surrounding bone begins to deteriorate. Dental implants help to prevent this bone loss, which can benefit the health and stability of your entire mouth.
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Improved Oral Hygiene: Dental implants are easy to clean and care for, just like your natural teeth. You can brush, floss, and use mouthwash regularly to maintain good oral hygiene.
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Long-lasting solution: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. This can save you money in the long run, as you will not need to replace them like other tooth-replacement options. |
What Can You Expect?
The process of getting dental implants typically involves the following steps:
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Consultation and Examination: During your initial consultation, your prosthodontist will examine your mouth and discuss your goals for treatment. They will also take x-rays and impressions of your teeth.
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Treatment planning: Once the examination and x-rays are completed, your prosthodontist will develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs. This plan will include the number and location of implants, the type of implant and restoration used, and the estimated cost of treatment.
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Implant Placement: The dental implants are surgically placed into your jawbone. This is typically an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia.
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Osseointegration: After the implants are placed, they will need time to heal and integrate with your jawbone. This process, called osseointegration, can take several months.
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Restoration placement: Once the implants are fully integrated, your prosthodontist will attach the final restoration, such as a crown, bridge, or denture, to the implants. |
Are dental implants right for me?
Dental implants are a good option for many people who have missing teeth. However, it is important to talk to your prosthodontist to see if you are a candidate for this treatment. They can assess your individual needs and determine if dental implants are the right choice for you.
Conclusion
Dental implants offer numerous benefits, including improved appearance, enhanced function, preserved jawbone, improved oral hygiene, and a long-lasting solution. If you are missing one or more teeth, talk to your prosthodontist to see if dental implants are right for you. They can help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile that will improve your quality of life. |
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