Dental Implants - General Cosmetic Dentistry And Implant Dentistry Information

It is very easy to become self-conscious when you have lost a tooth, especially when it becomes readily apparent when you smile. But, cosmetic dentistry can provide a solution that will restore your confidence, and smile. The procedure is safe, takes no more time then installing a dental crown, and is a permanent procedure. Those whove had the procedure have rated it as an excellent solution for tooth loss.

The cosmetic procedure we are talking about is dental implants. What is a dental implant? Dental implants are permanent replacements for lost, removed, or damaged teeth. Unlike a crown that fits over a tooth, or a dental bridge that sits on the gum, dental implants are permanently fixed to the jaw. They feel and function much like your other natural teeth. With the development of advanced materials it is difficult to detect the difference between a dental implant, and a natural tooth.

When dental implants are inserted into the gum, they are anchored to the jaw bone. This gives the implant a tremendous amount of strength, and stability. To accomplish anchoring a titanium screw is inserted into the jaw bone, tightened, and allowed to heal in place. A temporary crown is installed to guide gum growth until a permanent crown is ready to be put in place. Anchoring to the jaw bone is an important aspect of the procedure, and will give the crown adequate functional strength.

Once the implant has naturally healed, and properly anchored to the jaw bone, a permanent crown is attached. The permanent crown looks, and feels just like a natural tooth. The procedure is generally completed in one visit, but for the implant to fully heal, and anchor to the jaw bone can take a few months. The anchoring of the implant to the jaw bone is crucial for proper implant success.

Dental implants are used on both the lower and upper jaw, but the most successful implants have been to the lower jaw. This is due to the fact that the lower jaw bone is denser then the upper jaw, making the anchoring process more effective. Dental implants should be cared for the same way as natural teeth, and good oral hygiene should continue to be practiced to avoid any complications, or infections to the gums.