For many years, patients suffering from tooth loss had to be satisfied with dentures or bridges. Thankfully, modern dentistry now offers dental implants, a permanent solution to tooth loss that is truly the next best thing to natural teeth. If you’re looking for a reliable and effective way to restore your smile, dental implants could be the ideal solution for you.
Understanding Dental Implants: The Next Best Thing to Natural Teeth
Dental implants are designed to provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Unlike dentures and bridges, which can slip and require regular maintenance, dental implants are securely anchored into the jawbone, giving you the confidence to eat, speak, and smile without worry.
Who Can Get Dental Implants?
While most patients can receive dental implants, not everyone is a good candidate. Factors that may affect your eligibility include:
- Bone Density: Adequate bone density is required to support the implant. If bone loss has occurred, additional procedures may be necessary before implant placement.
- Overall Health: Certain health conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders, can impact healing and recovery.
- Oral Health: Patients should have good oral hygiene practices and be free from gum disease for successful implant placement.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
The process of getting dental implants involves several steps, each crucial for ensuring the success of your new smile:
- Initial Consultation: First, Dr. Chung will discuss your tooth replacement desires, dental history, and medical history. This conversation helps determine if dental implants are the right choice for you.
- Comprehensive Examination: Dr. Chung will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth, which may include taking radiographic images using our advanced 3D-CBCT scanner. This cutting-edge technology produces up to 600 images of your mouth and jaw, providing complete imaging while using about 95% less radiation than conventional CT machines found in hospitals. This three-dimensional imaging is the gold standard for presurgical dental implant site imaging.
- Surgical Placement: Dental implants are surgically secured into the bone of your jaw. This process is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort.
- Osseointegration: After the implants are placed, a healing period known as osseointegration occurs. During this time, the titanium implants fuse with your jawbone, creating a stable and secure foundation for your new teeth.
- Crown Placement: Finally, Dr. Chung will attach custom crowns to the tops of your implants. These crowns are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, providing you with an aesthetically pleasing smile.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Choosing dental implants for tooth replacement comes with numerous advantages, including:
- Durability: Dental implants are designed to last many years, making them a cost-effective solution in the long run.
- Natural Appearance: With custom crowns, your implants will blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, enhancing your smile.
- Improved Functionality: Implants allow you to eat a wider variety of foods without the fear of slippage associated with dentures.
Are You Ready to Restore Your Smile?
If you’re considering tooth replacement options in Towson, MD, dental implants may be the perfect solution for you. At Towson Dental Group, Dr. Chung and his experienced team are dedicated to helping you achieve a beautiful, functional smile that you can be proud of.
Contact us today at (410) 823-0044 to schedule your consultation and learn more about dental implants. Your journey to a renewed smile begins here!