Tooth loss is an incredibly common occurrence. You may lose teeth due to a traumatic accident or untreated disease. And while your dentist will do everything possible to preserve your natural teeth, there may come a point where a tooth is simply too damaged or too diseased to be salvaged. No matter the cause of your tooth loss, it is important to restore your dental form and function as expediently as possible. At MOSAIC Maxillofacial Surgical Arts & Implant Centers in Westchase, FL, the gold standard of tooth replacement is the dental implant.
Dental implants are titanium posts inserted into the jawbone, where they fuse into place. It then provides a sturdy, comfortable anchor for a custom-made replacement tooth. Because titanium is a biocompatible metal, there is an exceedingly low risk of any type of adverse reaction. If you do happen to have a titanium allergy, alternative materials are available. Dental implants have become the gold standard for tooth replacement, and MOSAIC is pleased to provide dental implant surgery.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
The dental implant procedure involves three basic components.
- First, there is the implant itself, the small titanium rod that is inserted into the jaw. Over the course of several weeks, it fuses into place through a process known as osseointegration.
- The third component is known as the abutment. This is a connective piece used to secure the dental prosthesis to the implant.
- There is also the replacement tooth, or crown. These prostheses are usually designed by your regular dentist, made to replicate the look and behavior of your natural teeth. This ensures a seamless, real-looking end result.
Getting all three components in place takes several weeks, but once the process is complete, you will have a fully restored smile.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are considered standard-of-care for tooth replacement and offer many benefits over older methods, like dentures and bridges. Consider just a few of the primary benefits of dental implants for tooth replacement.
Avoid Bone Loss
Without a tooth root to provide stimulation, your jawbone will atrophy. This process can lead to unwanted changes to your facial appearance, and it may also complicate dental restoration. Dental implants are the only form of tooth replacement that can help you avoid bone loss.
Look and Feel Natural
Your replacement teeth will be carefully crafted by your dentist, ensuring they blend in seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. The implants will provide a stable foundation, preventing the replacement teeth from slipping or sliding out of place.
Long-Lasting and Reliable
Clinical research demonstrates that dental implants have an incredibly high success rate (over 95 percent). For some patients, implants can last more than 40 years.
Improved Ability to Chew
With other tooth replacement options, you can run into trouble when you bite down into hard or sticky foods. Dental implants allow you to enjoy all of your favorite foods without discomfort.
Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
The best way to verify your eligibility for a safe, successful dental implant surgery is to meet with an oral surgeon or trained oral health provider. When you join us for a consultation at MOSAIC Maxillofacial Surgical Arts & Implant Centers, we will perform a full physical examination, review medical images, and discuss your candidacy for surgery.
The best candidates for dental implants:
- Are missing one or more teeth
- Are in good health overall
- Do not have untreated periodontal disease
- Have sufficient bone density for implants or are willing to get a bone graft
- Have realistic expectations about the dental implant process
What Is the Dental Implant Process Like?
There are four steps involved in the dental implant process: Initial consultation, supporting procedures (if needed), implant placement, and restoration.
The Consultation
At your initial consultation, your oral surgeon will verify that you are qualified for surgery, let you know about anesthesia options, and answer any questions you may have about the rest of the process. They will also determine how many implants you will need to replace multiple teeth.
Supporting Procedures
You may require additional procedures to prepare your mouth for implant placement. For example, if you have any unhealthy and non-viable teeth, you may need to have them removed. If you lack sufficient bone mass, you may require a bone graft.
Implant Placement
For the implant placement itself, anesthesia and sedation options will be provided to keep you comfortable. Your oral surgeon will carefully attach the implant to the jawbone, where it will need to heal in place for several weeks.
Restoration
Once the implant has fused with the surrounding bone tissue, you will see your regular dentist for the placement of the abutment and the crown. At this point, your dental restoration will be complete, and you will be free to enjoy a fully functional smile.
Additional Questions About Dental Implants
We are always happy to address specific questions about getting dental implants in Westchase, FL. Here are a few answers to the most common inquiries.
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Does Getting Dental Implants Hurt?
Anesthesia and sedation options will be provided to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure itself.
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What Should I Expect From The Recovery?
For several days, you will need to limit yourself to a liquid and soft foods diet. Some swelling and pain can be expected, but you will be able to manage these symptoms with simple, over-the-counter medications.
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Are Dental Implants Safe?
Dental implants have been used for more than 50 years and have a rejection rate of less than five percent. The risk of untreated tooth loss is much higher than the risks associated with dental implants.
Schedule a Consultation for Dental Implants
Curious about getting dental implants in Westchase, FL? Our team at MOSAIC Maxillofacial Surgical Arts & Implants Center invites you to schedule a consultation with us. Call (813) 749-0930 to make your appointment.
