Why People Get Dental Implants
Most people will seek out dental implants when they need to replace a tooth or teeth that have been removed from their mouth in some manner. Dental implants include an artificial tooth that is affixed to a created root in the mouth. The need to replace a tooth may come about for many reasons. The most common reasons that people will seek out dental implants include:
A Tooth Loss Caused By an Accident
Sports injuries, falls, and vehicle accidents can all result in broken, damaged, or even detached teeth. An implant can help to restore the normal appearance of your mouth to the way it looked before the accident occurred.
A Tooth or Teeth That Are Significantly Decayed
When teeth are severely decayed, or the decay has gone deep into the tooth, the tooth may end up needing to be removed. In some cases, you can be given a root canal and crown, but in other situations, you will need to have the tooth removed and replaced.
To Improve Their Smile
Some people, such as actors, models, or anyone concerned about the look of their smile may choose dental implants. Depending on the issues with your teeth and the desired look, teeth may need to be removed and replaced with implants to give you your desired results.
To Avoid Dentures
Some patients who would normally require dentures may opt for dental implants instead. Dental implants can be easier to care for and are a more permanent solution that is appealing to many.
How Dental Implants Can Help
There are many ways that dental implants help to improve the aesthetics of your mouth as well as its health. Having dental implants to replace missing teeth can:
- Prevent the loss of jawbone
- Help you maintain your appearance
- Allow you to speak more clearly
- Prevent your teeth from shifting
What to Expect When You Have Dental Implants
To prepare for your dental implants, your dental surgeon will first create a plan. This will involve making sure the implants will fit properly and that rooting them will not cause any damage to existing nerves. This process will involve several x-rays. Once they know how they will proceed, they will next implant the metal rods that will hold the structure into your jawline. After seven to ten days, the area should be healed, and stitches will be able to be removed.
It may take four to six months for the area to fully heal and be prepared for the next stage of surgery. During the second stage of the process, the protective screw on the implant will be removed and replaced with a metal cap. The final step in the process will come two to three weeks later when the bridge, crown, or denture is made and affixed to the implant.
Even though dental implants can involve a lengthy process, the results are amazing, often transforming the patient’s smile to what it once was, or what they have dreamed it to become.