There is an old adage that claims you never know what you have until it’s gone. If you don’t have a complete set of teeth, you probably know just how true that saying is. Without all of your chompers in place, it can be difficult to eat a nutritious diet. Plus, you may face other problems as well, including embarrassment over your incomplete smile and bone loss in your jaw. Dental implants might be the perfect solution for you! Let’s discuss some of the basics of this life-changing treatment.
Types of Implants
Dental implants are a small posts, usually made of titanium, that a surgeon places in your jaw. Your new teeth, in turn, get attached to those posts. There are a few different types of implant restorations that your dentist in Weatherford may recommend:
- These are used to replace a single missing tooth. One implant supports one artificial tooth.
- Implant-retained dentures. These can replace several teeth or all of them. Your dentist will strategically place a few implants throughout your mouth to support your new smile.
- All-on-4. This is a great option for patients who don’t have enough bone density for traditional implant-supported dentures. The dentist uses just four implants to replace either all of your upper or lower teeth. The entire procedure, including placement of the new teeth, can usually be done in just a day.
The Implant Process
In most cases, the implant process goes like this:
- First, your dentist will consider your oral and overall health and make a recommendation on whether implants are right for you. If you have strong bones, good oral hygiene habits, and no medical conditions that are likely to make your implants fail, the chances are that you’re a good candidate for the procedure.
- Some patients will need to have a bone graft in order for their jaw to be strong enough to support implants.
- You’ll have surgery to place the implants into your jawbone. If you’re getting All-on-4 dentures, your new teeth could be attached to your implants at this time.
- If you’re going with a more traditional route for your implants, you’ll have to wait a few months after your surgery before your dentist attaches your new teeth. This allows time for your body to bond with the implants, which will act in much the same way as natural tooth roots. It is this process of osseointegration that will help to prevent bone loss in your jaw.
- You can go forth and enjoy your brilliant, sturdy new smile!
Once you decide to take the leap and get dental implants, you’re in for an exciting journey. Why not talk to your dentist about your desire to replace your missing teeth?
About the Dentist
Dr. Thomas J. Novak is proud to lead the team of professionals in our office. As a member of The American Academy of Implant Dentistry, he is passionate about helping his patients achieve strong, healthy, complete smiles. If you would like to learn more about whether implants are right for you, please contact us at 817-594-7302.