At Cedar Creek Dental, dental implants replace one or more missing teeth. They are typically made up of a crown, an artificial tooth placed on top of the dental implant base to act as a replacement tooth, and a false tooth, or prosthetic tooth, that sits in the base to replace the missing tooth. The crown is cemented to the implant using a bonding agent. The dental implant base is typically titanium and acts as a strong and sturdy anchor for the false tooth. Dental implants are permanent restorations and offer patients the next best thing to a real tooth. Unlike dentures, they do not need to be removed for cleaning or sleeping at night.
The Advantages of Dental Implants
Improved Speech and Eating Ability
Dental implants provide stable and secure tooth replacements, unlike removable dentures that can slip or cause speech difficulties. This allows for improved speech clarity and the ability to bite and chew confidently, like natural teeth.
Enhanced Comfort and Stability
Dental implants eliminate the concerns of removable dentures, such as slippage, discomfort, or difficulty speaking or eating. Implants provide a stable and secure foundation for dental restoration, allowing individuals to enjoy their favorite foods and engage in normal activities without worrying about prosthetic teeth shifting or moving.
Long-Term Solution
Dental implants are a long-lasting tooth replacement option. Proper care and maintenance can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run compared to other alternatives that may require frequent replacements.
Preserves Jawbone Health
When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone can deteriorate over time. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone through osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the bone. This helps preserve the integrity and strength of the jawbone.
The Dental Implant Procedures
The dental implant procedure is completed over several months, depending on the patient’s oral health and specific needs. Before any work is done on the teeth or gums, the dentist will first create molds of the patient’s mouth with impressions, guiding the treatment process. These molds will also enable the patient to see what their smile will look like once the dental implants are in place.
Once the implants are secured, the new replacement teeth are attached to the implant posts. The dentist may place a temporary set of teeth over the implants during the healing period to give the patient a fully-functional smile while the implants fully fuse to the jawbone. Once they have healed properly, the temporary restorations can be replaced with permanent ones. The patient will be able to care for their new smile the same as they would for their natural teeth. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and maintaining routine dental visits are all important steps.
To learn more about dental implants and how they can benefit you, visit Cedar Creek Dental at 11786 SW Barnes Rd #360, Portland, OR 97225, or call (503) 646-1811.
