For centuries dentures have been the ultimate solution to dental replacement needs, especially when all a patient’s natural teeth have been lost. Throughout that time, dental implants have cropped up in various forms, including cases where seashells had been hammered into the jaw to replace missing teeth. Thankfully dental technology has come a long way over the years. Today’s dental implants are a powerful and effective solution to missing teeth that can not only restore normal function but also reinforce and strengthen the jawbone.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are an age-old method of replacing teeth that have undergone great innovation over the last few decades. The discovery of titanium’s ability to stimulate bone growth led to the creation of modern dental implants. By using mounts made of this material, dental implants are able to provide a secure replacement for teeth that provide a natural chewing and speaking experience. The embarrassment of dentures slipping while speaking or eating is eliminated with these prosthetics.
Do I Have To Lose All My Teeth To Get Dental Implants?
Dental implants can be used for single teeth, multiple teeth, or entire mouth replacement based on the needs of the patient. While most patients will opt for a bridge prior to receiving a dental implant for single or multiple teeth, dental implants are a viable alternative that will help preserve oral health. Patients who are missing all of their upper or lower teeth, or are prepared to have them extracted, can have a full dental implant put in place that restores their natural smile and oral function with ease.
What Is Involved In Getting Dental Implants?
The steps involved in receiving dental implants vary depending on the state of your oral health. It usually begins with the extraction of any unhealthy teeth and the extraction location being allowed to heal. At your first visit for implants, you will have one or more titanium screws implanted in your jaw that will serve as the mounting points for your fixed dentures. The surgical site will receive stitches and be allowed to heal over a period of weeks or months. Once properly healed, your next appointment will involve the placing of abutments on the mounts that will serve as a fixing point for your final prosthetics. You will be given a set of temporary implants while your final set is being designed at a dental lab. During your final visit, you will be fitted with the final dental implants and given instructions on how to care for them!
How Do I Clean My Dental Implants?
Cleaning your dental implants at home is a simple process. The implants are fixed in place and will only be removed by your dentist during your twice-yearly checkup. Outside of these visits, you will follow a normal dental hygiene routine involving brushing, flossing, and mouth wash to keep your new teeth looking great. You will want to take special care to avoid darkly colored foods and vices such as smoking, which can discolor your implants.
If you’ve decided that it’s time to make the leap to dental implants, pick up your phone and call 305-922-6268 to schedule an appointment with Dentistry of Miami. Dr. Solorzano and Dr. Furshman are available to provide you with exceptional dental care from our offices located at 7800 SW 87th Ave Suite A-140 in Miami, FL.