Dental implants are the closest thing you can get to your natural teeth in terms of appearance and functionality. Resembling tiny screws and taking the place of teeth roots, implants serve as anchors for prosthetic teeth known as crowns. They bond with the bone tissue in your jar to provide a sturdy base that allows your crowns to function as natural teeth. Although many people believe that implant technology is relatively new on the dental health scene, it’s actually been successfully used for more than 30 years. They are the strongest and most durable option for patients in need of dental prosthetic devices. It’s estimated that over 3 million people in the United States currently have implants, and that number is increasing at a rate of 500,000 per year.
Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
The ideal candidate for dental implants is in good general health, has healthy gum tissue that is free of periodontal disease, and has an adequate amount of bone tissue in the jaw to be able to properly support the implant. However, even if you have lost some bone tissue in your jaw, your dental surgeon may be able to rebuild the bone in your jaw through a grafting procedure. Your dentist can thoroughly assess your condition and advise you on whether implants are a viable option for you.
How to Care for Your Implants
Implants need the same careful attention to oral hygiene as their natural counterparts. Be sure to brush and floss at least twice per day, and schedule dental checkups every six months so that any emerging dental issues can be caught while in the early stages.
Please contact us to find out more about dental implants.