Dental implants are a popular way to replace missing teeth. They look and feel like real teeth, and are much more comfortable than dentures. Implants also help keep the shape of your face and jaw by preventing bone loss in the area of the missing tooth.
In addition, they may be able to restore some of the chewing function that is lost when you lose one or more teeth. Unlike other replacement teeth, such as bridges or dentures, dental implants are fixed in your mouth and do not rely on adjacent natural teeth for support. They are a permanent solution that can last a lifetime with proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist.잠실치과
Before getting dental implants, you will have a thorough exam. Your doctor will take X-rays, 3D images, or models of your teeth and jaw and review your medical history to ensure that you can heal properly after the surgery. You will need to tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, cancer, chronic steroid use, or other disorders that affect the blood vessels, bones, or sinuses.
If the area where the implant will be placed does not have enough healthy bone, a bone graft may need to be done before the surgery. This can be accomplished with either natural bone from another area of your body or a synthetic bone-substitute material. Once the bone graft has healed, it takes four to six months for enough healthy bone to grow in the area to hold an implant.송파치과
During this time, you can eat and drink normally. In some cases, you can even use your existing dentures or removable partials until the new implant is ready to be put in place. You can choose to have a removable or fixed tooth placed on the abutment, or both. The type of tooth placed will depend on the location of the tooth, your personal preference, and the condition of your remaining natural teeth.
Once the implant site has healed, a small metal post – the equivalent of a tooth root – is attached to the abutment. A replacement tooth (or teeth) is then attached to the abutment using dental cement.
Most patients report that their implant-replaced tooth feels and functions just like a natural tooth. It can be difficult to tell the difference between a natural and an implant-replaced tooth, especially when it is brushed and flossed. Implants can last a lifetime with good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist for cleaning and examination. Dental implants can increase your self-esteem and provide the foundation for an excellent smile.