What is a Dental Implant?

And why you will be forever thankful you had one placed.

In honor of National Dental Implant Awareness month this month, let’s talk about what dental implants are and why more people than ever are turning to them to replace their missing teeth.

The actual implant is made up of three parts. First, there is a titanium implant that is put into your gum line by a restorative dental implant specialist. This titanium implant will be put into the jawbone which leads it eventually fusing with the bone. Next is something called the abutment, which fits over the portion of the implant that sticks out from the gum. The last piece is the crown that looks like a natural tooth, and this is created by a restorative dentist.

It is highly recommended to do some research to find an implant specialist who has performed many successful dental implant procedures. The more experience the better. The dental implant specialist that you choose should feel comfortable performing dental implants. They should be informative and transparent. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Be an advocate for your dental health.

A dental implant is the closest thing you will get to having your natural tooth. One of the reasons why is that an implant can truly last the rest of your life, unlike a bridge which usually only lasts anywhere from five to ten years. Keep in mind dental implants do still need maintenance. This will ensure that they do last forever. Also, the titanium and zirconia dental implants are insanely strong and with that strength and that maintaining you will be doing, your tooth will be golden. Wait, your tooth will be white of course, but you will be golden.

Yes, a dental implant will cost more money but also save you money. This is because it will cost a little more money on the front end but it is absolutely the best solution if you have a missing tooth. Things like crowns and bridges are not meant to last a lifetime. These will have to be redone throughout your life leading to them costing more in the long run.

Another advantage of dental implants is that they are fixed into your mouth. They are not removable, so you don’t have to mess with them or worry about them coming loose. Implants are much more comfortable because of this too. You won’t even notice a dental implant in your mouth. Since it is attached to the jawbone, it stimulates the jawbone just like a natural tooth. It will honestly seem like your very own tooth. Also, dental implants are individually put in so they don’t interfere with any of the teeth around them.

As you know the implant is placed into the jawbone and this needs about three to four months to heal. During this healing period, the bone will fuse with the implant surface and become unified with the jawbone. So once you are healed you are ready to go back to the dentist to get the abutment put on. The abutment is a supporting post for your new tooth.

By leaving a missing tooth space for many months or years you can potentially lose bone around that area. It could be more difficult to have an implant done there if more time has passed. So the sooner you get your dental implant the better you can chew, bite, and smile.

Finally, one of the biggest reasons to go for the dental implant is to help you get your confidence back. Having what is the closest thing to your natural tooth in place of your missing one will elevate your spirits and your level of confidence. Honestly, that is priceless, isn’t it?

Only individuals who have been without a tooth that is visible while smiling truly know how stressful this is. Others can imagine it but won’t truly understand. If you are one of those people who are experiencing this anxiety right now please look into dental implants because they will change your life. Some of us feel anxiety for many reasons but don’t let a missing tooth be part of yours. Decide to relieve yourself of the anxiety of missing teeth. Imagine being able to flash a smile anytime, anywhere and not feel self-conscious but instead feel confident!