Are You Unsure What Dental Implants Are? Get a Simple Description
If you have lost a tooth or several teeth, then you might be considering dental implants. At California Dental Group we find that many patients are not sure exactly what these are or how they work. You can always get a thorough explanation when you visit California Dental Group for your dental exam and cleaning. In the meantime, keep reading for a simple description of dental implants.
A Lost Tooth Impacts a Person’s Entire Life
Losing a tooth isn’t just a minor inconvenience. It can be embarrassing, annoying, and can make it hard to eat. There is a reason that adults have the number of teeth they do, and missing even one can throw everything out of order. Additionally, a mission tooth can lead to decay of the bone that the tooth was once attached to. This can then cause a chain reaction that leads to gum tissue deteriorating and the loss of more teeth.
A Simple Description of a Dental Implant
The easiest way to think about a dental implant is that it is a permanent replacement for your tooth. Think about other options, such as dentures. These can be removed and put back into the mouth. They are not permanent and do not allow the wearer to enjoy the same benefits of their natural teeth, while dental implants do.
Not Everyone is Eligible to Get a Dental Implant
It is important to know that while most people are eligible to get a dental implant, not everyone is. If you have significant oral health issues caused by smoking or by chronic medical conditions like diabetes, then you might not be a good candidate. Likewise, if you do not have enough bone left, it can be difficult to get a dental implant. This is one of the reasons you should consider this option sooner rather than later.
The Process of Installing a Dental Implant
Your dentist or oral surgeon will drill a hole through the bone where the tooth is missing. A titanium screw is then placed in the hole. It will take a few weeks for the bone tissue to heal around the screw, but once it does, it will have created a strong, stable bond. Once it is entirely healed, the “tooth” will be screwed into the installed screw. It will fit just like your original tooth did.
If you have questions about dental implants, or believe that they might be the right choice for your dental needs, we recommend you contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 as soon as possible. We are available to provide a dental cleaning, exam, and dental implant assessment.
