Dental Implants: What You Should Know

At Robert A Saunders DDS PC & Brittany C Krog DDS, a dental implant is a titanium tooth root placed into the jawbone. The implant becomes an artificial tooth root and fuses with the bone in the jaw for a secure hold over time. Once the implant is in place, the dentist can attach a prosthetic tooth or bridge to fill the space left behind by the missing tooth. Implants can also anchor full or partial dentures in place securely. This eliminates the need for messy denture adhesives daily and allows you to eat the foods you love without worrying about your dentures slipping out of place. No matter why you need implants, it’s a permanent solution to get you back to your best smile!

The Benefits of Dental Implants

Improved Appearance

Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. They can help you achieve a healthier-looking smile and prevent unwanted changes to your face shape after losing teeth.

Ease of Care

Caring for implants is just like caring for your natural teeth. Brushing and flossing can protect the implant from bacteria and food debris buildup. You can also maintain regular visits to the dentist for exams and professional cleanings.

Durability

Dental implants are highly durable and long-lasting when cared for properly. They can often last for a lifetime when properly maintained by a dentist.

The Procedure for Dental Implants

A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace a natural tooth root. As the implant heals, the bone fuses, creating a solid foundation for your replacement teeth. Once the implant has healed and integrated with your bone, your restoration or denture will be affixed to the abutment, which acts as a connector between the implant and the crown. Implants can also anchor bridges and dentures in place.

To place an implant, an oral surgeon will first administer anesthesia to ensure you do not feel any pain during the procedure. They will perform minor oral surgery to place the screw-like implant in your jawbone under the gums. As the jaw heals around the newly implanted screw, it forms a bond with the bone in osseointegration. This process can take anywhere from three to six months to complete. After it fully recovers, your dentist will place the crown on top to complete your treatment and restore your smile.

To learn more about how dental implants can benefit you, contact Robert A Saunders, DDS PC & Brittany C Krog, DDS, at 2834 S University Dr, Fargo, ND 58103, or call (701)2939886 to schedule a consultation. Our dentist can examine your smile and discuss treatment options with you.