Do Dental Implants Look Natural?

Looking for information on dental implants? Tooth loss can be difficult, but dental implants offer patients an alternative that looks and feel like natural teeth.

How do dental implants work?

A dental implant is a tiny, screw-like post made from titanium. It is surgically inserted into the jaw to replace the roots of a lost tooth. The implant fuses with the bone (osseointegration) during a period of about six months. Before the implant surgery, the dentist will examine the medical history of the patient and their oral cavity to know if they are eligible for the operation. A comprehensive dental examination is also done, including x-rays to ascertain that there is enough bone mass to hold the implants.

Patients who smoke will need to quit smoking before undergoing the dental implant procedure because smoking is one of the major causes of implant failure. Once the implant is in place, the dentist will provide the patient with a temporary dental restoration to protect the area during healing. This time is critical, as patients must observe precautions such as maintaining proper oral hygiene to keep the mouth healthy and free of infection. Patients who are vulnerable to teeth grinding or clenching may get a custom mouthguard from the dentist to prevent damages to the implants and other teeth.

After the healing process is complete, the dentist will verify that the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone and is strong enough to perform effectively and will place a permanent restoration on the implant. The new restoration has the same strength and stability as the lost tooth. The dentist will also try to match the shade and shape of existing teeth to ensure the new restoration blends in perfectly with the rest of the teeth.

What makes dental implants unique?

The dental implant sits inside the jawbone, under the gum tissue, which means it will be completely invisible without the dental crown above it. The implants stimulate the jawbone and keep it healthy, making implants different from other forms of restoration such as traditional dentures. In most cases, no one will be able to tell the difference by simply looking at the tooth.

Advancements in dental implant technology have created materials and techniques that allow for replication of the color and shape of the natural tooth. The dental crown is made from sturdy materials, with almost the same resilience as a healthy tooth. The dentist will take an impression of the patient’s dentition to ensure the new restoration aligns with the remaining teeth.

Also, with as little as four dental implants, dentists can restore missing teeth on an entire dental arch. The implants will be able to withstand the chewing load, thereby solving the problem many dentures wearers face.

Final note

Dental implants can provide you with a natural-looking tooth with the functionality of the lost tooth. If you are missing a tooth, you can initiate the step towards regaining an attractive smile by booking an appointment with a dentist for an evaluation.

Request an appointment here: https://www.southfloridadentalarts.com or call South Florida Dental Arts at (305) 230-4041 for an appointment in our Miami office.

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