Dental implants are comfortable, natural-looking prosthetics for people who are missing one or more teeth. For the right candidate, they’re effective and convenient ways to repair your smile. Here’s what you need to know about them and what makes them right for some patients.

A Basic Primer on Dental Implants

How Do They Work? 

A dental implant is a prosthetic crown screwed onto an abutment that’s affixed to a titanium post. The titanium post is mounted directly in the jawbone, fusing with it to create a sturdy base for the crown that looks and feels just like a natural tooth. You can have a single tooth replaced this way, or several. The procedure takes place in stages over several months, beginning with implantation. At each step, the mouth needs time to heal, so expect to make a few visits.

What Are the Benefits?

People choose dental implants because they’re long-lasting and essentially indistinguishable from natural teeth in terms of appearance, function, and upkeep. Your dentist will color-match your crown to your existing teeth, so no one will know you that have an implant. You can continue to enjoy the foods you love without worrying about loose dentures or bridges. You’ll care for them just like natural teeth, too. Twice-daily brushing and once-daily flossing will help your implants stay strong and last for decades.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Because these prosthetics rely on a strong jawbone for support, the best candidates have enough bone to hold the post. The bone must also be strong and healthy. In some cases, an oral surgeon can perform a bone graft to build up enough support for an implant. If you have a medical condition that results in compromised bone structure or poor density, or one that limits healing from surgical procedures, this treatment may not be suitable for you. Talk to your dentist about implants and alternative options.

Four Corners Dental Group is a dentist in Anchorage and Wasilla, AK, that offers affordable dental care for your whole family. They provide an array of services to keep your mouth healthy and beautiful, or restore your smile to its original brilliance. With state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, you’ll enjoy the latest advances in treatment technology, such as laser dentistry and dental implants. To schedule your appointment, call (907) 258-3384. Learn more about their office online. Follow them on Facebook for dental health tips.