How Dental Implants Work: Restoring Your Smile
Dental implants are a groundbreaking solution for those missing one or more teeth, offering a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing option. At ENVY Dental, Implants & Esthetics in Wichita, we're dedicated to providing our patients with top-tier dental solutions, and dental implants are one of the most effective procedures we offer. Here’s a detailed look at how dental implants work and why they might be the right choice for you.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone beneath the gum line. This allows your dentist to mount replacement teeth or a bridge into that area. Titanium is used because of its strong and durable nature, as well as its ability to fuse to bone over time, a process known as osseointegration. This fusion helps the implant serve as a sturdy foundation for artificial teeth.
The Dental Implant Process
The process of getting dental implants involves several steps, and the entire process can take several months to complete. Here’s what you can expect:
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Initial Consultation: At ENVY Dental, we start with a comprehensive consultation to assess your oral health and determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. This involves examining your teeth, gums, and bone density.
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Preparation: If you have a damaged tooth that needs replacing, it will first need to be extracted. Some patients might require bone grafting if there isn’t enough bone to support the implant.
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Implant Placement: Once you are ready for the implant, surgery is performed to place the titanium post into your jawbone. This is typically done under local anesthesia.
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Healing and Bone Integration: After the implant is placed, the healing process begins. It can take several months for the implant to fully integrate with the bone.
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Abutment and Crown Placement: Once healing is complete, an abutment is attached to the implant. This serves as the base for your new tooth - the crown - which will be custom-made to match your natural teeth in color and shape.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer numerous benefits:
- Durability: Implants are very durable and can last many years, and with good care, a lifetime.
- Improved Oral Health: Unlike bridges, implants do not require reducing other teeth, which helps preserve more of your natural tooth structure.
- Convenience: Implants eliminate the inconvenience of removable dentures.
- Improved Comfort and Appearance: Implants feel and look like your own teeth, enhancing both comfort and confidence.
Why Choose ENVY Dental in Wichita?
At ENVY Dental, our experienced team led by Dr. Vessali is committed to ensuring that each step of your implant process is as comfortable and efficient as possible. We use state-of-the-art technology to achieve the best outcomes and ensure that your new teeth look and feel natural.