The most commonly used restorative dental procedures include dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants.
Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple ones. The idea behind an implant is that we place a titanium screw into your jawbone, then wait for it to become stable before we apply the false tooth to the screw. Implants function like natural teeth, which are also attached to your jawbone.
Dental bridges, on the other hand, aren’t attached to your jawbone. They’re fixed in place, relying on teeth adjacent to that space. Damage to these supporting teeth can lead to deterioration and instability of the bridge.
At OASIS Modern Dentistry & Orthodontics, we can’t give you a guarantee that implants last a lifetime, but they commonly do when taken care of properly. A dental bridge usually lasts up to 15 years if well maintained before it needs replacement.
One of the greatest things about implants is that they look almost identical to natural teeth. No one should be able to tell that one of your teeth is an implant. They might be noticeable in the interval between applying the screw and applying the false teeth.
In some cases, the false teeth can be applied in the same visit where we apply the screw. Usually, however, the screw needs some time to settle in before we can add the false tooth to it.
During that interval, you might be able to use dentures to cover the appearance of the screw. Dentures are removable and should be easy to use. We’ll provide you with all the instructions you need during each visit.
Implants might take some time, and you might find them troubling at the start. Within a few days, after everything is over, you’ll forget you got them in the first place as they blend in perfectly with the rest of your teeth.
Teeth implants typically last for many years, often a lifetime, with proper care and maintenance. Factors like oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and overall health can influence the longevity of dental implants.
Good candidates for dental implants are individuals with sufficient jawbone density, healthy gums, and overall good oral health. They should be committed to oral hygiene practices and have realistic expectations for the implant procedure.
Yes, dental implants are considered safe and have a high success rate. They are a well-established and reliable dental treatment option. However, like any surgical procedure, there are some risks involved. Consult with your dentist to assess your specific situation.
Getting a dental implant is typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring minimal pain or discomfort during the procedure. Afterward, some soreness or discomfort may occur, but it can be managed with prescribed pain medications.
The duration of a dental implant procedure varies based on factors like the number of implants and individual case complexity. On average, it can take anywhere from a few months to a year to complete the entire process.
