If you’re missing one or more teeth, you may be able to restore your smile using dental implants. Because they’re inserted directly into the bone, implants are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth, making them one of the most popular restoration options available. If you’re considering this dental solution, the guide below will explain it further. 

Understanding Dental Implants

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is essentially a titanium post that fuses with the jawbone. Designed to replace the actual tooth root, it’s topped with an abutment and capped with a natural-looking crown.

How Are Dental Implants Inserted?

After confirming the patient has enough bone left to support the implant—or performing a grafting procedure if they don’t—the dentist will place the implant into the bone. This is a minimally invasive procedure with little downtime. However, the implant must fuse with the jawbone before the dentist caps it. This can take anywhere from three to nine months.  Once the implant has fused with your bone, the dentist can place the abutment and full crown.

How Do You Care for Dental Implants?

An implant tooth must be cleaned daily with good flossing and brushing.  Implants are susceptible to problems just like natural teeth if not maintained and cared for properly.  Your dentist may also recommend wearing a night guard nightly to avoid unnatural pressure on the implant, such as night time clenching and grinding.

To see if you’re an ideal candidate for dental implants, turn to Drs Emery & Scuro DMD, PC in Rochester, NY. A full-service family dentistry practice, they’re equipped to care for patients of all ages. For more than 35 years, residents of Monroe County have turned to them for all their oral health needs. To explore the various procedures they perform, visit their website. To make an appointment, call (585) 247-7110.