Dental Implant FAQ
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| • | The implant: A titanium post surgically embedded into your jawbone that acts as a replacement tooth root. This biocompatible material gradually fuses with your natural bone through a process called osseointegration, creating an exceptionally stable foundation. |
| • | The abutment: A connector piece that attaches to the implant once healing is complete. This component serves as the bridge between the implant and the visible crown. |
| • | The crown: The visible portion of the replacement tooth, custom-made to match your natural teeth in shape, size, and color. Modern dental ceramics create incredibly lifelike results that are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. |
| • | Permanence and stability: Unlike dentures, implants are permanently fixed in your mouth with no risk of slipping, clicking, or falling out during everyday activities like eating or speaking. |
| • | No adhesives or special maintenance: Say goodbye to messy denture adhesives, overnight soaking, and special cleaning solutions. Implants are maintained just like your natural teeth. |
| • | Natural appearance and function: Custom-made crowns are designed to blend in with your natural teeth in color, shape, and size. Dental implants restore nearly 100 percent of your natural biting and chewing function. |
| • | Preserved facial structure and youthful appearance: Without teeth, your jawbone gradually deteriorates, leading to a sunken facial appearance and premature aging. Implants stimulate bone growth and maintain your facial structure. |
| • | Protection of adjacent healthy teeth: Unlike traditional bridges that require filing down neighboring healthy teeth, implants stand independently and don't compromise surrounding teeth. |
| • | Improved nutrition and digestion: With the full chewing capacity restored, you can enjoy a varied, nutritious diet without restrictions. |
| • | Enhanced speech: Missing teeth or loose dentures can affect speech patterns. Implants allow for clear, natural speech. |
| • | Long-term oral health: Implants help prevent shifting of remaining teeth, maintain proper bite alignment, and reduce risk of jaw joint problems. |
| • | Improved quality of life and confidence: The security of knowing your teeth are permanent allows you to speak, laugh, and eat with complete confidence. |
| • | Initial consultation and treatment planning (1-2 visits): Comprehensive examination, imaging, discussion of options, and creation of a personalized treatment plan. |
| • | Preparatory procedures: These might include tooth extractions, bone grafting, or treatment for periodontal disease. Healing from these procedures may take one to six months depending on complexity. |
| • | Implant placement surgery (1 visit): The titanium implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone, a procedure typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation options available. |
| • | Healing Period (3-6 months): This critical phase allows for osseointegration, where the implant fuses with your jawbone. For some patients, a temporary restoration may be placed during this period. |
| • | Abutment placement (1 visit): Once healing is complete, a small connector post is attached to the implant, and impressions are taken for your final restoration. |
| • | Custom crown fabrication and attachment (1-2 visits): Your permanent crown is crafted in a dental laboratory to precisely match your natural teeth, then secured to the abutment. |
| • | Practice diligent oral hygiene: Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying special attention to the area where the implant meets the gumline. Consider using an electric toothbrush for optimal cleaning. |
| • | Floss daily around the implant: Use dental floss or interdental brushes to clean around the implant and between teeth. Special floss designed for implants may be recommended. |
| • | Use recommended oral hygiene products: Antimicrobial mouth rinses and low-abrasive toothpastes can help maintain healthy gum tissue around implants. |
| • | Protect from excessive forces: If you grind or clench your teeth, wear a custom night guard to protect your implants from excessive pressure. |
| • | Maintain regular dental checkups: Professional cleanings and examinations every six months allow for early detection of any potential issues. |
| • | Avoid damaging habits: Don't use your teeth as tools to open packages, bite fingernails, or chew ice or hard candies. |
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