When patients have experienced natural tooth loss, they have a variety of options available when it comes to restoring their smile. Dental bridges, partial dentures, and dental implants are all solutions to this concern. However, Dr. Kent of the Smile Center will often steer his patients in the direction of dental implants when it comes to finding a long-term, worthwhile investment in a patient’s smile. Many patients want to learn more about the process behind tooth implantation. Buffalo dentists such as Dr. Kent are happy to take the time to explain the procedure to patients and ensure them that this is one of the best available options for tooth replacement.
Patients must be a viable candidate for implant placement. An overall examination and consultation will allow Dr. Kent to determine whether a particular individual is in a position to have tooth implantation. Buffalo patients who are interested in this treatment will need to have sufficient bone structure for the placement of the dental implant.
The dental implant is a titanium metal post that the dentist will implant into the bone underneath the gum. This will replicate a tooth root. It is then left to heal over the course of several months to allow the process of osseointegration to occur. Osseointegration is the process in which the bone in the jaw grows around the implant to help hold it into place, in the same way it does a natural tooth root. Bone stimulation is the key to the success of a dental implant.
Then, a dental crown is fabricated and placed on the top of the dental implant to act as the false tooth. This will be fabricated in a way that it matches the patient’s natural teeth as close as possible so that it looks cosmetically appealing within the smile.
The care and maintenance of a dental implant is easy. Patients should brush and floss just as they would their normal teeth, and visit their dentist regularly for cleanings and examinations. If properly maintained, patients can easily enjoy their dental implants for the rest of their life!