No tooth replacement option is as predictable, secure and realistic as the modern dental implant. Recommended and restored by dentists in Burleson, Dr. Jay Oza and Dr. Shiv Kohli, these artificial teeth reside in the jaw bone, providing a secure foundation for excellent chewing, speaking and of course, aesthetics. Learn about them and who is a candidate for these excellent tooth replacements.
How Dental Implants in Burleson Work
A dental implant has three basic components:
- a titanium metal screw or cylinder placed into the jawbone during an in-office surgery
- a metal alloy post, or abutment, bonded to the implant and extending above the gums
- a custom-fabricated porcelain crown which mimics natural tooth shape and color perfectly
After a trusted oral surgeon in the Burleson area places the implant, he lets the site heal for several weeks so the implant bears the forces of biting and chewing. This post-operative time allows for a natural process called osseointegration in which the jaw bone melds to the titanium implant. Osseointegration makes dental implants exceptionally strong and prevents gum and bone recession, side effects of tooth loss.
While dentists and their patients often choose dental implants to replace a single tooth, these prosthetics anchor multiple teeth, too, with fixed bridges or full dentures. In the case of bridges, implants avoid tooth and gum recession and the extensive grinding down of tooth enamel needed to anchor bridges to adjacent teeth. With full dentures, implant patients need no gooey dentures adhesives, and jaw height and density remains youthful and strong. These denture patients experience no slurred speech, facial changes or dietary restrictions.
Additionally, while bridges and conventional dentures need replacement in ten years or less, dental implants last a lifetime, rarely requiring replacement. They boast high success and retention rates, are cared for with routine brushing, flossing and cleanings and look great. Customized implant restorations mimic the feel and function of real teeth.
Who is the Ideal Candidate for Implants?
Individuals in good overall health make excellent candidates. Dr. Oza or Dr. Kohli examines the patient to make sure he or she has sufficient bone to accept an implant. In the case of thin bone, the doctors may augment it natural or biocompatible materials and then place the implant.
Additionally, patients must floss and brush diligently. Smoking jeopardizes dental implant longevity with a condition called peri-implantitis, an infection similar to advanced gum disease. The doctors encourage smokers to abstain for 72 hours before and after implant surgery to aid healing. If possible, implant recipients should take the opportunity to quit altogether.
Contact Marvel Dental Care
This dedicated team of professionals can tell you if you are a candidate for dental implants. Contact Marvel Dental Care today to arrange a dental implant consultation. We are open Monday through Saturday to serve you. You can anticipate a complete, strong and long-lasting smile!