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A dental implant is a titanium post inserted surgically into the patient’s jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. Dental implants provide a strong and durable foundation for replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures, which are attached to the implants to restore the appearance and function of natural teeth.
Candidates for dental implants should have adequate jawbone density to support the implants, healthy gum tissues, and good oral and overall health. However, even if you have experienced bone loss or gum disease, additional procedures such as bone grafting or periodontal treatment may still make dental implants a viable option.
As long as your dental implants are cared for and maintained properly, an implant should last a lifetime. Unlike other tooth replacement options like bridges or dentures, which could require replacement every 5 to 15 years, dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution for tooth replacement.
The dental implant procedure will occur while the patient is under local anesthesia to numb the surgical area, ensuring that patients are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. Some patients may experience minor discomfort or swelling following the surgery, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and resolves within a few days.
Dental implants typically don’t make you sick. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks of complications such as infection or allergic reactions, although these are rare.
The dental implant process typically involves multiple stages and may take several months to complete. After the implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, a three- to six-month healing period is usually required to allow the implants to integrate with the surrounding bone. Once the implants have healed, the final restoration, such as a crown or bridge, is attached to the implants to complete the process.
Patty
Before – “Dr. Fernandez, I don’t like my front teeth. The black line is awful. Can you fix that?”
After – Aesthetic case, ceramic crowns with custom shade were done at the lab. The patient is happy. “I am so happy with my new teeth and appearance, bye bye black line. Thanks, Dr. Fernandez!”
Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. It involves brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and attending regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Avoid chewing on hard objects or using your teeth to open packages, as this can damage the implants or restorations. With proper care, dental implants can provide long-lasting function and aesthetics for years to come.
If you are interested in learning more about dental implants, you should reach out to a local area dentist. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Blanca Fernandez at Highland Dental Clinic in South Lakeland, FL, please call (863) 457-1954.
Dr. Blanca Fernandez is a skilled dentist in Lakeland, FL. She studied general dentistry at the Colombian Dental College and studied prosthodontics and received a Master of Science at the Dentistry Foundation of San Martin in Bogota, Colombia. She earned her Doctorate in Dental Medicine at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. With specialized training in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and oral surgery, Dr. Fernandez is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and member of the American Academy of General Dentistry, American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, West Coast Dental Association, and Polk County Dental Association.