One of the biggest pieces of news out last year (in terms of dentistry, at least) was this study, which showed that scientists are this much closer to discovering how to regrow teeth in humans! Click the link to learn about the colorful fish in Africa that can grow many new teeth throughout its lifetime. It’s exciting news to be sure, but until the day that we’re able to regenerate teeth actually comes, we’ll have to keep working with the next best thing: dental implants in Weatherford! Actually, they’re so good that some people call them nature’s rival — keep reading to find out more.
Dental implants provide a sturdy whole-tooth replacement
When we say that dental implants replace the whole tooth, we mean the visible portion and its root. That’s something that other replacement options (like crown and bridge or non-implant supported dentures) just don’t do — and, frankly, the reason they’ll never be as good as teeth replaced with dental implants.
How dental implants work
Tiny titanium posts, dental implants are surgically placed directly into the spot left by each missing tooth. A replacement device is placed on top while the slow but vital process of osseointegration occurs — that’s when your bone and implant fuse together, forming the stable base for the permanent prosthetic tooth.
Once osseointegration has worked its magic — a process that takes around six months, on average — your implants are super sturdy and ready to receive the prosthetic teeth. That means it won’t be long before you’re enjoying your complete, beautiful smile once again.
Candidates for dental implants
If you’re interested in learning whether or not you’re a good candidate for dental implants, you’ll need to schedule an initial consultation with your Weatherford family dentist. When you do, we’ll check your mouth for two things:
- Sufficient existing jawbone. In order for your dental implants to be successful, you’ll need plenty of supporting bone structure so that the new device can solidify with your mouth. If tooth loss has already resulted in too much bone degeneration, a bone graft or other option may be explored.
- Good oral and overall health. Successful candidates for dental implants are also those in good health. We’ll examine your mouth and discuss your medical history with you in this initial appointment to make sure they’re the right option for you. Patients with serious gum disease or diabetes, for example, are not good candidates for dental implants.
Learn more about dental implants from your Weatherford dentist today!
When you’re ready to complete your smile once and for all, without the hassle of messy denture creams or ill-fitting devices, call Cosmetic & Family Dentistry of Weatherford to schedule your appointment! We can’t wait to see how your very best smile looks on you.