For patients who are unhappy with their smiles, implants can completely transform your long using a long-term and relatively permanent solution. Dental implants can be used to replace just one single tooth at a time or keep a bridge or full denture in place. Denture wearers will benefit from implants because they won’t need to worry about using gels, adhesives and creams just to prevent slippage.
What’s a Dental Implant?
Most implants are made of titanium, so they’re surgically safe to be used in the human body. They are inserted deep into the bone and allowed to fuse naturally with this bone in about six to nine short months. Once the implant has completely bonded with the surrounding bone, it is a secure and incredibly stable foundation for any type of restoration. The implant acts and works on its own, preventing the need for other teeth to be compromised, drilled, or filed down in any way.
How Long Will Your Implants Last?
Once your implants have been given some time to fuse with the jaw bone, they’ll last for two to three decades and possibly longer. They won’t need any special treatment or have to be repaired unless there is a significant problem. Problems that do occur are rare and are normally specific to bone loss in the area or facial trauma. Otherwise, you can enjoy a gorgeous restoration that provides you with years of excellent use and a beautiful smile. If you’ve been wanting to transform your smile and are ready to make a change, dental implants can give you what you want. In comparison to how long they last, implants don’t take long to heal and become part of your jaw.
How to Extend the Life of Your Implants
Keeping your teeth and mouth as clean and healthy as possible is the best way to prevent any problems from occurring to your implants. Gum disease, for example, can affect the underlying bone and cause both tooth and bone loss. This can cause your implants to become loose, requiring both replacement and a bone grafting procedure to be done. You should make it a habit to come into the office twice every year for regular checkups. This gives us the chance to check the health of your implants and make note of any changes or problems that we might find during your bi-annual visit.
