Dental Implants Specialist

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is an artificial replacement for a missing tooth that looks and acts like a natural tooth. Dental implants consist of the following parts:

• Tooth root: a metal screw-like piece that attaches to the jawbone
• Crown: the visible portion that looks like a tooth 
• Abutment post: connects the root to the crown

Dental implants are a suitable alternative to bridges or dentures for missing teeth. Typically, implants require three or more sessions at your dentist’s office.

First, Dr. Rodriguez attaches the artificial root to your jawbone during surgery. During the healing process, the root actually bonds to your jawbone. 

Once the bonding process is complete, which can take several months, your dentist has you return for a crown fitting. Your crown is custom-made to fit your mouth and match your other teeth.

Finally, Dr. Rodriguez attaches your crown to the abutment post. After the crown is in place, you should be able to chew, brush, and speak like you normally would.

Am I a good candidate for dental implants? 

Dental implants are a viable option for many adults. It’s best to check with your dentist at Gentle Touch PC to determine if dental implants are right for you.

Generally speaking, the ideal candidates for dental implants meet the following criteria:

• Adequate jawbone density to support an implant
• Absence of chronic illnesses like diabetes or leukemia that interfere with healing
• Nonsmoker
• Commitment to favorable dental hygiene habits

If you smoke, don’t take care of your teeth, or have a contraindicated health problem, your dental implants may be slow to heal or easy to damage.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants have several functional and cosmetic advantages. Should you choose dental implants, you may enjoy the following benefits:

• Long-lasting to permanent lifespan
• Sturdy, reliable quality
• Healthy jawbone preservation
• Materials that are compatible with the human body
• Conspicuous appearance

Unlike bridges and dentures, dental implants are the only tooth restoration option that promotes the health of the underlying bone and provides the most natural reconstruction of a tooth. They should also not have to be replaced in your lifetime.

If you’re interested in learning more about dental implants, call the office or book an appointment online.