Dental implants are replacement tooth roots. They are small posts made from highly biocompatible materials (titanium) that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Dental implants fuse with the bone to provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth. After the implant has connected to the bone, an abutment (support post) is attached to the implant. The abutment supports one or more replacement teeth, called crowns.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are an effective and reliable long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. This option provides more benefits than dental bridges and dentures.
- Dental implants are easy to care for and clean.
- Dental implants do not require any special care beyond normal oral hygiene.
- Dental implants allow you to speak and chew normally.
- Dental implants also prevent jawbone shrinkage and gum recession.
- Dental implants feel and function like your natural teeth.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are designed to last a very long time, and the longer you care for them, the more likely they are to last you a lifetime.
The Dental Implant Process
During the initial appointment, the dentist in Garland, TX will first complete a dental exam and determine whether the patient is a good candidate for dental implants. If the patient does have good oral health and sufficient bone structure to support the implant, the dentist may proceed with surgery. Dental implants require surgery to have the implant placed. The dentist can then attach a temporary restoration to the implant, such as a temporary dental crown.
During the healing period, the patient will need to practice proper oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, to avoid complications or infection. Once the implant site is healed and the jawbone fuses around the implant, the patient returns for the next dental appointment. The dentist will carefully place an abutment and secure the final restoration to the abutment, thus resulting in a healthy tooth.
Mini Dental Implants
Mini Dental Implants are small titanium implants that anchor your missing tooth to restore its form and function. They are made from the same materials as traditional single-tooth dental implants and can support fixed crowns, bridgework, or dentures.
Though mini dental implants are smaller in size than traditional dental implants, they still offer the same results.
Unlike traditional dental implants, mini implants consist of a screw instead of a metal post. The screw is tightened into the patient's gum tissue directly into the jawbone and hence, doesn't involve the need for stitches. They are placed into the jawbone via a pinhole or in the empty socket of the lost tooth. Besides, when traditional tooth implants come in two pieces, mini implants are a single unit.
What Are The Benefits of Mini Dental Implants?
Mini dental implants have several benefits:
- They don't require invasive surgery
- They're affordable
- They preserve your bone density
- They prevent bone loss
- They're quick to install
To learn more about the dental services offered by Choice Dental Associates, call us at (972) 530-7374 or schedule an appointment online.
