Everything You Need to Know About Dental Implants

Do you have one or more missing teeth? Are you thinking about getting dental implants? Then you probably want to know more about these permanent replacements for missing teeth.

A dental implant is a permanent solution to missing teeth

A dental implant is a metal post that your dentist surgically embeds into your jaw. It is a permanent replacement for one or more missing teeth.

The dental implant procedure is easier than you might think

While it is true that dental implants require several trips to you dentist, the procedure itself is relatively straightforward. First, you’ll come in for a consultation in which you and your dentist determine if dental implants are right for you. If you have gum disease or low bone density in your jawbone, you may need to come back to treat those issues before you get your dental implants.

On the day you get your dental implants, we’ll start by numbing the treatment area. We’ll also provide some level of anesthesia to help you stay relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure. Once you are numb and relaxed, we’ll make a small incision in your gum to expose the jawbone. Next, we’ll create a tiny hole in your jawbone, just large enough to insert the screw-shaped metal post into your jaw. We’ll then close the incision and put a temporary crown on the implant.

Over the next few weeks, your jawbone will fuse to the metal rod, in a process known as osseointegration. Once this process is complete, you’ll return for placement of the permanent dental crown.

Dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth

Unlike dentures that you’ll need to replace every 7 to 10 years, dental implants are designed to last forever.

Dental implants are natural-looking and easy to care for

Made from high-quality materials, dental implants and artificial crowns look, feel, and function like your natural teeth.

Taking care of dental implants is easy – just brush and floss as usual.

A dental implant can hold more than one crown

One dental implant can hold up to three teeth. What’s even better is that, in a procedure known as All-on-Four, you can replace all the teeth on your upper or lower jaw on just four implants. With an All-on-Four, you’ll never have to experience the hassle and embarrassment of dentures that slip and slide.

Dental implants cost less than you might think

While the cost of getting a dental implant may seem high at first glance, it is actually less expensive than many of its alternatives. You may have to replace your denture or dental bridge after only five years, for example, and replacing them so often can get expensive. A dental implant is designed to last forever, by comparison, so it is a one-and-done investment for most people.

Dental implants preserve the health of your jawbone and the shape of your face

You may already know that a strong jawbone holds your teeth in place, but did you know that your teeth help keep your jawbone strong? It’s true!

Biting and chewing causes pressure on your teeth. This pressure travels down each tooth, through the tooth root and into the jawbone, where it stimulates the production of new bone cells. When you lose a tooth, you also lose this bone-building pressure. As the result, your bone becomes less dense and loses its ability to hold your remaining teeth in place – the other teeth may drift or even become loose! Losing bone density in your jaw can also change the shape of your face.

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root, which transmits the pressure of chewing into the bone. This means dental implants help keep your jawbones strong and retain the shape of your face.

Am I a good candidate for dental implants?

Not everyone is a good candidate for dental implants. You may be a good candidate for dental implants if you:

• Are missing one or more teeth
• Struggle with eating or speaking because of tooth loss, or are embarrassed about your smile
• Have strong enough bone tissue in your jawbone to support the dental implant
• Have healthy gums
• Are in overall good health
• Are a non-smoker
• Are committed to oral care
• Have good oral hygiene habits

Your dentist can help you determine if dental implants are right for you. We can also help you treat gum problems, improve your oral hygiene habits, or increase your bone density through grafts so that you can get dental implants.

Where can I find a dentist near me who offers dental implants?

Our dentist in Mt. Pleasant offers dental implants that will make you smile! We’re the area leaders in dental implants, and we are always glad to answer your questions and to help you determine if dental implants are right for you. Patients who are looking for a dental implant dentist in Charleston can come to our dentist in Mt. Pleasant too.

Make an appointment to meet our CHS Dental team today.

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