What Are Dental Implants? And How Do They Work?

A dental assistant shows an example of a dental implant

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They are made of titanium, a biocompatible metal that fuses with the bone over time. This creates a strong and stable foundation for a replacement tooth, such as a crown, bridge, or denture.

Dental implants are used to replace missing or damaged teeth. They can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all of the teeth in an arch. Dental implants are a popular choice for tooth replacement because they offer a number of advantages over other options, such as dentures and bridges:

They look and feel like natural teeth. Dental implants are fused to the jawbone, so they don't slip or move around like dentures. This makes them comfortable to eat, speak, and smile with.
They are durable and long-lasting. Dental implants can last for many years, even decades.
They help to preserve jawbone health. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone begins to deteriorate. Dental implants help to stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss.
They improve overall oral health. Dental implants can help to improve chewing function, speech, and self-esteem.

How do dental implants work?

The dental implant procedure typically takes place in two phases. In the first phase, the dentist or periodontist surgically places the implant into the jawbone. This is an outpatient procedure that is performed under local anesthesia.

Once the implant has been placed, it takes several months for the bone to fuse with the implant. This process is called osseointegration. During this time, the patient will wear a temporary tooth replacement.

Once the implant has fused to the bone, the dentist or periodontist will place the abutment, which is a piece of metal that connects the implant to the replacement tooth. The replacement tooth can be a crown, bridge, or denture.

Benefits:

Dental implants offer a number of benefits over other tooth replacement options, including:

Natural appearance and feel. Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. They are fused to the jawbone, so they don't slip or move around like dentures.
Improved chewing function. Dental implants allow patients to chew normally, even hard foods. This can improve digestion and overall nutrition.
Improved speech. Dental implants can help to improve speech by preventing the tongue from slipping and sliding around like it can with dentures.
Improved self-esteem. Dental implants can restore a patient's smile and confidence.

Risks:

Dental implants are a very safe and effective procedure. However, there are some risks associated with surgery, such as infection and bleeding. There is also a risk that the implant may not fuse with the jawbone.

If you are considering dental implants, it is important to talk to your dentist or periodontist about the risks and benefits of the procedure.

Cost:

The cost of dental implants varies depending on a number of factors, such as the number of implants needed, the type of replacement teeth, and the geographic location of the dentist's office.

In general, dental implants are more expensive than other tooth replacement options, such as dentures and bridges. However, they are a long-term investment that can last for many years, even decades.

If you are considering dental implants, be sure to talk to your dentist or periodontist about the cost of the procedure.

How to care for dental implants

Overall, they require the same care as natural teeth. This includes brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. It is also important to see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Dental implants are a popular choice for tooth replacement because they offer a number of advantages over other options, such as dentures and bridges. They are durable, long-lasting, and improve overall oral health.

How Smile Stop Dentures & Implants Can Help

Smile Stop Dentures & Implants is a leading provider of dental implants and dentures in Oklahoma. Our team of experienced dentists and periodontists is dedicated to helping patients achieve healthy and beautiful smiles.

We understand that losing a tooth or teeth can be a devastating experience. It can affect your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. That's why we offer a variety of tooth replacement options.

Dental implants are the most durable and long-lasting tooth replacement option available. They are also the most natural-looking and feeling. If you are considering this solution, Smile Stop Dentures & Implants is the team to trust.

We understand that the cost of dental implants can be a concern for some patients. That's why we offer a variety of financing options to make them affordable for everyone.

If you are interested in learning more, schedule a consultation with Smile Stop Dentures & Implants today. We will help you find the best tooth replacement option for your needs and budget.

Learn more about dental implants and dentures at Smile Stop Dentures & Implants here.