Signs You May Need Dental Implants
Dental Implants
Your smile is one of the most important aspects of your overall facial attractiveness. Unfortunately, a variety of natural and traumatic causes can result in tooth loss and detract from your beautiful appearance. Fortunately, dental implants can be used to replace missing teeth and improve your smile. At our South Carolina practice, Dr. Celeste Springer and Dr. Bryan Springer perform this procedure for men and women of all ages.
The most common conditions that result in the need for dental implants include:
Trauma to the mouth
Congenital defects
Tooth decay
Gum disease
Root canal failure
Candidates
Ideal candidates for dental implants are in good overall health and have no pre-existing medical conditions. Potential patients should choose to undergo this procedure for themselves rather than because of pressure from others. While dental implants typically provide very satisfactory results, patients need to have realistic expectations about the procedure.
Procedure
After local anesthesia or general anesthesia is administered, an implant made of solid titanium metal is placed into the empty tooth root, and gum tissue is placed around it. A tooth-like replacement (abutment) is screwed onto the top of the implant, and the implant will naturally fuse with the jawbone over the next few months. Once the implant is success fully integrated into the jawbone, a permanent crown is used instead of the abutment.
Recovery
Once the dental implant procedure is complete, medication will be prescribed to lessen any discomfort and pain that occurs over the next few days. Ice compression is also recommended as the jaw will experience some swelling. If you're like most patients, you will be able to return to work and resume your daily routine in about a week.
Results
Dental implants present some of the most satisfying results in all of cosmetic dentistry. The results will look very natural and are meant to last many years. To ensure the longest-lasting results, maintain good oral hygiene and avoid trauma to the mouth.
