13 Dec How Closely do Dental Implants Mimic a Natural Tooth?
As an adult, losing one of the permanent teeth we rely on for chewing, speaking clearly, and smiling with self-confidence can be devastating. The dental implants procedure is a means to restore the loss of one or more teeth, and is the closest thing to having your biological teeth back.
When tooth loss occurs due to trauma, disease, or decay, the bone that once held the tooth in place starts to deteriorate almost immediately. When the implant is placed (which is usually made with titanium for its unique properties that promote bone fusion and growth), the implant will fuse with existing bone providing the strength and stability we obtain from the roots of natural teeth. [pullquote]The dental implants procedure is a means to restore the loss of one or more teeth, and is the closest thing to having your biological teeth back.[/pullquote]
This fusion generally occurs over a period of months … during this time, the implant surgical area is healing. Once healing is completed and the implant is firmly in place, the final restoration is permanently cemented in place.
If one tooth is replaced, the restoration is like a dental crown. It will be made to match surrounding teeth in size, shape and color making it look natural and like tooth loss never occurred.
If several teeth or an entire arch are to be supplanted, more than one dental implant may be placed to support a bridge or denture. Your implant dentist will work with the dental lab to fabricate a prosthetic that closely matches the lost teeth making your dental implants virtually impossible to detect.
Once the healing process is complete and the implants are in place, eating, speaking and smiling will resume as if tooth loss never occurred. The implant has become part of your permanent dental anatomy and is not felt any more than you feel the roots of your natural teeth.
The crown, bridge or dentures feel as natural as your own teeth. And since they are permanently cemented in place, there is no fear of movement or slipping.
Caring for dental implants is identical to the care you provide for your biological teeth. Daily flossing and brushing along with twice annual visits to our dental office for a thorough cleaning and dental exam will help protect your remaining natural teeth and keep your dental implants healthy and prosthetic teeth clean and bright for a lifetime.