If you are self-conscious of your missing teeth? Do you wear dentures that are uncomfortable? Talk to Dr. Allan Acton at Cary Family Dental in Cary NC to see if dental implants are an option for you.
Dental implants are a well-liked and effective way to replace missing teeth and blend in with your other teeth and is one of the biggest advances in dentistry in the past 40 years. Dental implants are made up of titanium and other materials that are compatible with the human body. They are posts that are surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw, where they function as a sturdy anchor for replacement teeth.
Most patients find dental implants to be secure, stable, and a good replacement for their own teeth.
There are generally three phases to getting an implant:
- First, the implant is installed into the jawbone. You may be recommended a diet of soft foods, cold foods, and warm soup during the healing process.
- Next, the bone around the implant heals and fuses. What makes an implant so strong is that the bone grows around it and holds it in place. Some patients might need to wait until the implant is completely integrated, up to several months, before the crown can be attached to the implant.
- Finally, it’s time for the placement of the artificial tooth/teeth. For a single tooth implant, your dentist will customize a new tooth for you, called a dental crown. The crown will be based on size, shape, color and fit, and will be designed to blend in with your other teeth. If you are interested in dental implants, it’s a good idea to discuss it carefully with your dentist first. If you are in good general health this treatment may be an option for you. In fact, your health is more of a factor than your age. You may be medically evaluated by a physician before any implant surgery is scheduled.
Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or leukemia, may interfere with healing after surgery. Patients with these issues may not be good candidates for implants. Using tobacco can also slow healing.
Contact Cary Family Dental to discuss dental implants:
