The Parts of Your Dental Implant
First, let’s look at your dental implants. Each one is made of three main parts. First, is the biocompatible titanium post, the implant portion. This is a small screw-like device that is inserted into the jawbone, bonding like a new root. Next is the abutment, which we attach to the post and will extend above the gum line, Finally, we have the restoration, which acts as the visible portion of your new tooth, and provides a durable chewing surface.
Placing and Restoring Them
To place them, we first examine your smile and find out if you have underlying oral health issues that need to be managed. Next, we assess the strength of your jaw to see if you need grafting before we move forward with placement. If not, then we insert the post into the jawbone using digital technology to guide the process and select the right position and angle to support a new tooth. If you have multiple missing teeth, we may insert multiple posts. We then attach abutments and secure the restoration or possibly a prosthetic, such as a bridge or denture. Unlike traditional tooth replacement options, this is able to last for decades to come, and even a lifetime in some cases.
Preserving Your New Teeth
To ensure they last, we need to care for them as we would natural teeth. You should clean them just as you do your natural teeth, brushing twice a day and flossing every evening. Try to avoid sugary and starchy foods that feed harmful bacteria, and also avoid tobacco use too. See us every six months so we can keep an eye on your smile and address any problems that arise before they can compromise your new or natural teeth. When you schedule a visit now, you can start your journey to a full smile and use your 2021 dental benefits before they expire, and also put any health savings funds to use before they expire too. To schedule a visit, or to ask any questions about the process, simply give us a call today.
DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT IMPLANT DENTISTRY?
Our team is ready to start you on a journey to a full smile once again. To learn more about how we approach treating tooth loss, then call James Stewart, DDS, dental implant office in Livonia, MI, at (734) 425-4400. We also serve the residents of Farmington, Plymouth, Dearborn Heights, and all surrounding communities.