Dental Implants
At Valerin Dental in Peoria, IL dental implants are something we offer to new and existing patients. Dental implants are the gold standard for missing teeth, and it’s helpful to understand what this treatment entails so you can decide if this is something that might be right for you. Learn more about what dental implants are, their benefits, the dental implant procedure, and follow-up care.
What Are Dental Implants?
When people think about dental implants, they usually picture the tooth part; the part that’s visible above the gum line. But the part that’s actually implanted is a piece made of titanium. Titanium is an inert metal. That means that it doesn’t break down or interact with the body. Titanium is used in all kinds of body implants because it’s not rejected by the body. People have titanium hips, titanium elbows, titanium knees, and more! Now, thanks to dental technology, millions of people have titanium dental implants.
There are two more pieces that make up the dental implant, which are the abutment and the prosthetic tooth. The abutment connects the prosthetic tooth to the titanium implant.
The Dental Implant Process
The dentist in Peoria, IL first implants the titanium piece into the jaw bone. Over time, the implant fuses with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration, ensuring the durability and stability of the replacement tooth. The abutment is connected to the titanium implant. After a suitable healing time has passed, the faux tooth is put into place.
How Long Do Dental Implants Take?
It’s important to note that a dental implant procedure doesn’t just take place in one day. Typically it takes several weeks. In some cases, it may take several months. One reason for the wide disparity in the length of time is that the success of the dental implant depends a lot on the condition of the jaw bone. In many cases, where an adult has lost one or more permanent teeth, there is bone loss or a lack of sufficient bone density to support a titanium implant. In cases like these, something must be done to fortify the bone; often bone grafting or a bone growth formulation. This takes time—often many months—for the bone to grow in strength and density. Only then will the bone be ready to accept the titanium implant, and only then can the procedure for dental implants continue.
Benefits of Dental Implants
As mentioned, dental implants are considered the best treatment option for missing teeth. The benefits of dental implants include:
Permanency
Dental implants are permanent. Once you get dental implant treatment for your missing tooth or teeth, you never have to worry about it again. You only have to make sure that you practice good oral hygiene, and you can be assured of a beautiful smile for the rest of your life.
Comfort
Dental implants are entirely comfortable. In fact, you won’t even notice that you have them after the healing time has passed. Unlike dentures, which can become uncomfortable over time, dental implants become part of your jawbone. They entirely eliminate the potential for discomfort and the inconvenience of removable dentures. In addition, dental implants don’t require the adhesives needed to keep dentures in place, and there is no risk of them slipping or causing sores in your mouth. The entire experience is pleasant and convenient.
Natural Appearance
Dental implants are carefully designed to look and feel like your own natural teeth. The titanium implant integrates into the bone structure, preventing bone loss and gum recession that often accompany bridgework and dentures. This integration helps maintain a natural facial structure and smile, so you look and feel better about yourself.
Would you like to learn more about dental implants in Peoria, IL? Contact our office today to book an appointment!
