The prospect of getting dental implants can be intimidating. There’s no denying it is a major procedure. However, it is also a very routine procedure that has little risk and huge potential to improve the lives of those who get this procedure done. At Jersey Shore Dentists at Century Dental in Jackson, Seaview Dental in Eatontown, or Seaview Dental Stafford in Manahawkin, we want our patients to be as educated as possible about dental implants. After all, the more you understand about this option, the less intimidating it may seem. In order to help demystify dental implants, we’re taking some time today to answer some frequently asked questions about dental implants.
Keep reading to learn more about implant dentistry from our dental practice. If you have any more questions or would like to schedule a consultation regarding dental implants, please get in touch with our dentists at the location most convenient to you in Jackson or Eatontown, NJ.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are surgically metal posts that act as “roots” for artificial teeth. Each post can hold one fixed bridge or partial denture, or a full denture can be attached to the implants. Once the implant process is done, the connected artificial teeth are a fixed set of teeth that look and function like your real teeth. Unlike with traditional dentures, implants allow you to eat the foods you love and maintain an active lifestyle without worrying about your dentures popping out. There are three parts of a dental implant. There is the post that attaches to your jawbone, an abutment that attaches to the post, and the artificial tooth or teeth that connect to the abutment.
What is the dental implant procedure like?
Every patient is different, and the procedure for each patient may be a little different as well based on the needs of that person. However, in general, your dentist will create a small opening in your gum line for the implant, as well as drill a cavity in your jaw where the implant will be placed. Then, your dentist will insert the implant into your jaw, as well as an additive that will promote bone growth around the implant. This implant is now going to function as the “root” of your tooth. Over the next few months, this implant will fuse with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration, making it incredibly sturdy. While the implant fuses with the jaw, a temporary implant or denture may be placed so you don’t have any noticeable missing teeth in the interim. Once the implant has healed, an abutment is attached to the implant — a small metal piece that the artificial teeth will eventually attach to. Lastly, realistic artificial teeth will be connected to the implants.
Who can get dental implants?
You will need to schedule a consultation at your dentist’s office to determine if dental implants are right for you. However, people who have one or more missing teeth, have adequate jaw bone structure wherein to place the implants, are willing to commit several months to the healing process, and who do not have any health conditions that would increase the risk of the implants failing are good candidates.
People with certain chronic diseases may not be candidates for dental implants. Additionally, those who smoke or drink heavily and are not willing to pause these habits during the healing period may experience more complications and therefore may not have success with implants. Remember, this is a process that will lead to long-lasting realistic teeth, so weighing your concerns and being honest with your implantologist are important to the overall success and longevity of your implants.
Stay Tuned For More Information About Implant Dentistry
That’s all we have time for in today’s blog! Be sure to keep an eye on this space for the second installment of this blog series about dental implants. If you are ready to discuss this option with your dentist, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today!
