Many people with missing teeth often wonder – what are dental implants? Well, consider them as artificial roots of a tooth, the same shape as screws. Restorative dentists in Columbia, MD offer the procedure for people who want to achieve a picture-perfect smile. In the past decade, there has been a significant rise in the prevalence of dental implants in the US.
Types of Dental Implants
When you visit your dentist for a tooth replacement, it’s vital to not only answer, what are dental implants, but also understand the different available options. Furthermore, it’s essential to realize that dental implants and dentures are two different things, although they serve the same purpose. Certified dental implants in Columbia, MD can help you with the distinction.
According to the American Dental Association, the safest types of implants are endosteal and subperiosteal implants.
Endosteal Implants
It’s a type of implant whereby your dentist inserts an artificial root in your jawbone to hold a placement tooth. After fixing the implant, the dentist allows sufficient time for your damaged gum tissues to heal before conducting another surgery.
The next surgery aims to attach a post to the first implant. The final step is the attachment of the artificial tooth to the post.
Subperiosteal Implants
While endosteal implants rest on the bone, dentists fix subperiosteal implants on the upper part of your jawbone, just underneath your gums. Subperiosteal implants are ideal for people with a thin jawbone.
After the healing of your gums, the dentist will attach an artificial tooth to the posts on the metal frame of subperiosteal implants.
What Are Dental Implants Used For?
With dental implants, you’ll enjoy enhanced appearance and self-esteem. As such, you’ll no longer need to hide your smile or laughter, and you’ll still look as you did before losing your tooth/teeth. After regaining your smile, you’ll feel better about yourself, which boosts your self-esteem.
You can hardly differentiate between dental implants and your natural teeth. The design flawlessly fuses the dental appliance with your jawbone, thus becoming irremovable.
Because implants are permanent, they’re more comfortable and less inconveniencing when compared to removable dentures. Implants avoid the uncomfortable awkwardness of removing dentures, as well as the need for untidy glues to fit them properly. It will be like you never lost your teeth when you get implants.
The functionality of implants isn’t different from that of your natural teeth. Thus, implants permit you to enjoy your favorite meals without any pain or aches in your mouth. More natural chewing of food leads to enhanced overall well-being because digestion begins in the mouth.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Implants enhance the maintenance of ordinary speech, but some alternatives may interfere with your speech. For instance, if your dentures are not fitting correctly, they can slide in your mouth, making you stutter or mumble your words.
At the best clinic for dental crowns and bridges in Columbia, MD, you’ll get dental implants that will enable you to speak with confidence without worrying that your teeth may slip.
Implants ensure easier brushing and flossing. There is no need for removing implants when you want to brush your teeth. Thus, it’s easier to clean implants than other alternatives as they permit access between your teeth. As a result, implants make it easier to maintain oral hygiene through not only brushing but also flossing.
After a dental implant, you’ll need to continue caring for your teeth just as you would if you had all your natural teeth. You can implement several care routines, such as:
- Brushing
- Flossing
- Avoiding sugary foods
- Routine professional dental cleaning
- Regular dental check-ups
A Final Word on Dental Implants
Now you have a satisfactory answer to the question – what are dental implants? If you’re missing a tooth, consult an experienced dentist who can perform this procedure to restore your lovely, healthy smile.