Restorative dentistry is a field that has seen massive improvements in recent years, with the advance of technology. Contemporary dental implants make it possible for the dental patient to have missing teeth replaced with artificial ones – but don’t let the word ‘artificial’ rouse mental pictures of fakeness or inefficiency. Today’s teeth implants look, feel, and function exactly the same way as natural teeth. Dr. Jonathan Cook DMD, of llustradent in Fort Lauderdale can provide you with all the information you would ever need on dental implants. You can also schedule a dental appointment with him, either for dental implants or any other implant dentistry procedure. For the time being, though, let us take a look at the five most frequently asked questions about dental implants.
Dental implants: what are they?
As the name suggests, implant dentistry is a medical field that deals with the implantation of artificial teeth. Dental implants are artificial devices, designed in order to look and work just like natural teeth. They comprise a root and a crown, both made out of artificial, durable materials. Patients that go in for implant dentistry can either have one or several teeth replaced, but they can also get artificial teeth for support purposes. Say you require a dental bridge implant, or a denture, be it full or partial – a dental implant will support those devices, in order to help integrate them into the patient’s mouth as smoothly as possible. At the moment, dental implants are the most comfortable, functional, and best looking type of artificial teeth, known to yield permanent and satisfactory results.
Dental implants versus Dentures – what should I choose?
Not to claim that dentures don’t come with benefits, but this traditional type of artificial teeth has been known to pose issues to the wearer. Dentures can slip out of the mouth. They are also high maintenance and are only a temporary fix for missing teeth. To boot, they tend to feel and act unnaturally. That is, in fact, the main difference between dentures and dental implants – whereas the former is but a temporary solution, the latter is permanent. If you schedule an implant appointment with Jonathan Cook DMD, he and his team of technicians will custom design the implants to fit accurately and become an integral part of your set of teeth. With dental implants, the risk of unaesthetic results, trouble speaking or difficulties with chewing is significantly reduced.
When will I need to replace my dental implants?
Never! That is perhaps the main advantage dental implants have over dentures: they last forever.
What should I expect from a dental implant procedure?
First, a thin metallic anchor will be affixed to your jaw, immediately underneath the line of your gums. Then comes a span of several months, over which this pivot needs to merge seamlessly with the bone of your jaw. After the merging has completed, the dental crown, which has been tailor-made for you, will be attached on top of the anchor. This completes the procedure, whose end-result is a brand new tooth, with an entirely natural look and feel.
Can I get dental implants?
Just about anyone can get dental implants if they need them, i.e. if they are missing any natural teeth. Of course, this surgical procedure does come with a set of risks, just as much as any other. In order to minimize these risks, Dr. Jonathan Cook will assess your jaw bone density and state of gum health during your first appointment with him. Don’t worry if this initial evaluation comes out negative: Dr. Jonathan Cook will advise you on your options and help you select the most efficient and appropriate one for your particular dental implant needs.
