Dental implants are a restorative dental treatment used to replace missing teeth. They are considered a durable and long-term solution for restoring a natural tooth's appearance and function. A dental implant is a small, screw-shaped post typically made of titanium or titanium alloy. At First Smile Family Dental, implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root. The implant fuses with the jawbone through osseointegration, providing a stable and secure foundation for a replacement tooth or dental prosthesis.
The Procedure for Dental Implants
Dental implant surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia or, in some cases, with sedation. The dentist will create an incision in the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone and carefully place the implant into the jawbone. The gum tissue is then stitched back into place. Over the next few months, the implant integrates with the surrounding jawbone through osseointegration. During this healing period, a temporary restoration may be placed to maintain aesthetics and function. Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, a small connector called an abutment is attached. The abutment protrudes through the gum line and acts as a support for the final dental prosthesis.
After the gums have healed and the abutment is in place, a custom-made dental prosthesis, such as a crown, bridge, or denture, is fabricated to fit onto the abutment. The prosthesis is designed to match natural teeth' color, shape, and function, providing a seamless and functional restoration.
The Advantages of Dental Implants
Improved Appearance
Dental implants closely resemble natural teeth. They are designed to blend seamlessly with the rest of your teeth, enhancing your smile and overall facial aesthetics. Implants provide a natural-looking and attractive tooth replacement option.
Restored Functionality
Dental implants function similarly to natural teeth, allowing you to speak, eat, and chew quickly and confidently. Unlike removable dentures, implants are fixed in the jawbone, providing stability and eliminating concerns about slipping or clicking during speech or eating.
Enhanced Comfort
Implants become a permanent part of your oral structure, eliminating discomfort or irritation associated with removable dentures. They feel and function like natural teeth, providing a comfortable and seamless dental restoration.
Preservation of Jawbone Health
When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone may deteriorate over time. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone through chewing forces, preventing bone loss and preserving the integrity of the facial structure. Implants help maintain a healthy and youthful facial appearance.
Improved Oral Health
Dental implants do not require alteration of surrounding teeth, as they are independently placed in the jawbone. This preservation of natural tooth structure promotes better oral health and facilitates more accessible access to oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing.
Dental implants provide a stable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing tooth replacement solution. To learn more about dental implants, visit First Smile Family Dental at 32717 1st Ave S., Suite 9, Federal Way, WA 98003, or call (253) 785-7323.