What is a dental implant?
Implants are metal anchors surgically placed into the jaw to hold permanent replacement teeth. In time, the jawbone tissue attaches itself to the implant creating a highly stable support.
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What are the benefits of dental implants?
Implants greatly improve the ability of your teeth to withstand biting pressure. Ideally, they can restore the amount of pressure to nearly the same level as that of healthy, natural teeth.
Implants eliminate the problems of sores caused by inadequately secured dentures slipping and sliding. Patients experience increased self-confidence because implants function virtually the same as natural teeth. With proper care, implants can last for many years.
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How are these dental protheses implanted?
Usually a team including your dentist, an oral surgeon and/or a periodontist perform the treatment. X-rays and a thorough exam are necessary to begin your treatment plan. During surgery, various types of anesthesia will be administered and you will receive one or more "anchors" or implants secured within the jawbone to serve as the foundation for your replacement teeth.
After several months during which new bone and gum tissue has had time to grow around the implants, a small post is attched above the gumline to each implant. These serve as the anchors for your permanent teeth. After your gums have healed, your replacement teeth or dentures are permanently secured to the posts.
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How do I care for dental implants?
Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental checkups are essential to the long life and service you will enjoy with your new implants.
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