Dental implants are today's leading replacement for missing or damaged teeth. Dental implants replace both the root and the body of the tooth with biocompatible materials, providing excellent appearance, chewing ability, and function.
Dental Implant Construction
Dentists use biocompatible titanium alloys to make the implant post. The post screws into the jawbone, bonding with it in an osseointegration process. The implant post receives a cap or abutment made of stainless steel that protects the area while the surgery site to place the implant post is healing. Finally, a dental crown made of metal, porcelain, or ceramic materials tops the implant and provides a lifelike tooth restoration.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Restores Function
A dental implant will allow you to chew, talk, and smile like a natural tooth. You will not have to worry about restricting certain foods from your diet as you would with a bridge or partial denture. Your new implant will be strong, long-lasting, and fully functional.
Restores Appearance
People who are missing teeth know how much this problem can impact their confidence and self-image. Having new implants will make you want to smile again, showing your teeth in photos and social situations.
Preserves Jawbone Strength
Osseointegration allows the jawbone to receive chewing stimulation like it would from a natural tooth root, enabling it to retain its strength and volume.
Types of Dental Implants
Single-Tooth Dental Implants
Each implant replaces one tooth. These implants are the most lifelike but also the most costly if you have multiple teeth to replace.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Implant-supported bridges have many advantages over traditional crown-supported bridges. The bridges stay solidly in place. No adjacent teeth need preparation, and the bridge will not damage nearby areas.
Implant-Supported Dentures
If you need a full arch of new teeth, implant-supported dentures are an excellent option. They use from four to six implants rather than one for each missing tooth.
Mini Dental Implants
Mini dental implants work well in small spaces and where there is not enough jawbone mass for a traditional single-tooth implant. They heal more quickly than traditional implants, and the dentist can sometimes place them in one day.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
The dental implant post in the jaw could last a lifetime with proper care. The restoration on top may need replacement every five to 15 years, depending on wear and tear.
Receiving Implants
Most dental implants require a multi-step process, meaning that it takes several months to receive your complete restoration. However, these restorations will last many years and provide premium replacements for your missing or damaged teeth.
Call Meridian Dental Group
Dental implants can improve your self-confidence, tooth function, and quality of life. We are experts in placing dental implants and can answer your questions about the process or how your life will change after receiving them.
Call our Midtown Manhattan, NYC office at 212-813-0850 for more information on dental implants and how they can help you restore your beautiful smile.