Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that bond with your jaw bone. They are also a sturdy base for supporting crowns, which replace missing teeth.
In some cases, a patient needs a bone graft to have enough jaw bone to support an implant. The success of this treatment depends on a number of factors, including: the health and healing abilities of the patient, as well as their ability to maintain proper oral hygiene.
They look and feel like your natural teeth
When an implant is placed in the mouth, it fuses with the jawbone via a process called osseointegration. This makes it very stable and incredibly lifelike, so that most patients can’t tell the difference between their implants and their natural teeth.
Like your natural teeth, dental implants Bowling Green KY have a crown that’s custom made to match the color, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth. They also have a small metal post (called an abutment) that connects the crown to the replacement tooth.
The only thing that might feel different is eating – because an implant doesn’t have nerves, it won’t react to hot or cold food. But once you get used to it, you’ll find that it feels very natural and comfortable.
If you care for your implant well, it will last for a long time. It’s important to brush twice a day and floss regularly to prevent inflammation. You should also visit your dentist for regular checkups.
They prevent bone loss
Bone loss is a serious problem that can affect your oral health. It can cause other teeth to shift, change the shape of your face, and make you look older. The good news is that dental implants prevent bone loss by acting as artificial tooth roots and stimulating the jawbone to stay healthy and dense.
Traditionally, the success of an implant was measured by monitoring changes in marginal bone level on radiographs, but this method can vary by observation geometry and observer perception. To overcome this, a one-site per patient statistical test was used to determine the average annual rate of bone loss and compare failing implants with surviving ones.
Bone grafting involves transplanting bone tissue to promote growth and replace deficient areas. It is often done in conjunction with dental implants Bowling Green KY. There are several types of grafts, including autograft, allograft, and xenograft. In addition, we can use guided bone regeneration (GBR) to help the area heal more quickly.
They prevent other teeth from shifting
Unlike dentures and bridges, dental implants actually replace the root of your missing tooth. This prevents further bone loss by mimicking the function of natural tooth roots.
When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth shift to fill the gap, which alters their alignment and bite. This can lead to chewing problems, increased decay, and other issues with your teeth and jaw.
Implants stop this from happening by replacing the lost tooth root and stabilizing nearby teeth. They also help keep the shape of your face, which can be lost if the surrounding teeth shift.
A titanium implant post (which resembles a screw) is surgically placed in the jawbone, then a cap or abutment is attached to it. During the healing process (which can take weeks to months), the implant fuses with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration. The abutment is then used to support artificial teeth. Most dental implants are made of titanium, which is biocompatible and accepted by the body.
They’re affordable
Implants cost more than other tooth replacement options, such as a denture or dental bridge. However, they’re a long-term investment that can pay off in terms of improved oral and overall health. Unlike other restorations, implants integrate into the jawbone, helping to maintain its strength and structure. They also prevent other teeth from shifting and can help you eat better and speak more clearly.
The cost of dental implants Bowling Green KY depends on a few factors, including the location and type of tooth being replaced. For example, front teeth are more expensive to replace than molars, as they require more skill and time to work on.
Many practices offer a range of affordable payment solutions for dental implants, so you can enjoy the benefits of a healthy, beautiful smile without financial strain. Morris Park Dental offers multiple financing options and works with patients to understand their insurance coverage. Contact us today to learn more about how we can make the cost of dental implants more manageable.