Dental implants are the perfect solution for patients missing one or more teeth. They’re one of the most comprehensive ways to replace missing teeth because they restore the look, function, health, and structure of your mouth. An implant specialist can customize an implant solution to fit your needs whether you’ve lost a single tooth, several teeth, or even a full arch.
One of the biggest reasons people love dental implants is their durability. Unlike other tooth replacement options, implants are designed to last for decades. In many cases they last a lifetime. But how do they work, and what makes them so strong? Let’s break it down.
The Implant Anchor: A Strong Foundation
The first step in getting a dental implant is placing the anchor, which is a small titanium post. Your dentist will carefully insert this post into your jawbone where your missing tooth used to be. Over time, the post fuses with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This creates a rock-solid foundation for the rest of the implant.
You can have as many anchors as you need to support the teeth you’re replacing. For example, your dentist might place multiple anchors in one procedure if you’re missing several teeth.
Before starting the process, your dentist will check the health of your jawbone using X-rays. If you’ve lost bone density in your jaw (which can happen after tooth loss), they might recommend a bone graft to strengthen the area. This ensures the anchor has a stable base to fuse with.
The anchor becomes a permanent part of your jaw once it’s in place and fully healed. This means your implant won’t slip or move around like dentures might. If you ever feel like your implant is loose, let your dentist know right away. It’s not normal, so they’ll need to check it out.
The Abutment: Extra Support for Your Implant
The next part of the implant is the abutment, which is a small connector piece. Your dentist will attach the abutment to the top of the anchor, right at the gumline, once the anchor has fused with your jawbone.
The abutment plays a key role in making your implant durable. It connects the anchor to the prosthetic tooth (or teeth) and ensures everything stays securely in place. This means you can bite, chew, and speak knowing your implant won’t budge.
The stability of an implant is one of the biggest reasons patients choose it over other options. If you’re curious about how implants compare to other tooth replacements, Dr. Benson can explain the benefits in more detail.
Custom-Made Prosthetic Teeth: A Natural Look and Feel
The final piece of the puzzle is the prosthetic tooth (or teeth) that attach to the implant. These are custom-made to match your natural teeth in size, shape, and color, so they blend in seamlessly with your smile. But they’re not just about looks. They’re also strong and durable.
Your dentist will create prosthetics that fit your mouth perfectly, so they don’t disrupt your bite. This is important because an uneven bite can put extra pressure on your implant and shorten its lifespan. With a custom fit, you can avoid this problem and enjoy your implant for many years.
The prosthetic teeth usually consist of strong and stain-resistant dental ceramic. This means they can handle the pressure of chewing and biting without cracking or breaking. Plus, they’ll stay looking bright and white, so you can feel proud to show off your smile.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
If you’re tired of dealing with missing teeth, dental implants could be the solution you need. They’re durable, stable, and designed to look and feel like your natural teeth. To learn more about how implants can transform your smile, call Dr. Benson today at 941-270-9755 or request a consultation online.