Dental implants involve an artificial tooth root surgically placed into a patient’s jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge. The titanium implant is fused with the bone, creating a solid foundation for artificial teeth. At George J. Karr, DDS, the number of implants you receive will depend on how many teeth you want to replace. If you are missing all of your teeth, a full-arch restoration is likely the best solution. You will need to have the teeth extracted and receive six to eight implants. If your jawbone is too narrow or thin to receive an implant, you may need a bone graft.
How Are Implants Placed?
First, your dentist will drill a hole into the jaw bone, then insert the implant into the hole. Once the dental implant is in place, the patient will be given time to heal while the bone fuses to the implant through osseointegration. When this step is complete, the dentist will attach an abutment to the dental implant. Finally, the artificial tooth will be attached to the abutment. The entire procedure can take anywhere from three to six months to complete and varies significantly from patient to patient.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
- Dental implants look natural, unlike traditional dentures that can shift and move during chewing or talking. Since dental implants become a part of the jawbone, they stimulate the bone just like natural teeth do. This helps to prevent bone loss from occurring over time.
- Dental implants are comfortable because they are made to fit your mouth and match your bite pattern. Dentures can rub against the gums and irritate them.
- Dental implants can prevent facial sagging with missing teeth since the jaw structure is restored.
How Should I Care for Dental Implants?
Once your dental implants are in place, our team will recommend the best foods to eat and the best hygiene products to use to ensure proper care and prevent any problems. Brushing and flossing around your new tooth or teeth is essential, just as you would typically do for a natural tooth. It would be best to clean the areas between the implant posts with an interdental cleaner daily. Also, use an oral irrigator to flush out food particles trapped between your teeth and around your gums after every meal and snack. This will prevent plaque from building up on or around your teeth.
Implants are a good investment because they can last for a lifetime. If you have any other questions about dental implants, visit the dentist in Boca Raton, FL - George J. Karr, DDS, at 1590 NW 10th Ave #400, Boca Raton, 33486, or call (561) 368-9966.
