Missing teeth don’t only take a toll on your appearance, they can also affect your ability to eat and talk normally. Even worse, missing teeth can lead to bone loss in the jaw. Dental implants are one of our most popular treatments for missing teeth as they can last for years with proper care and they look and function just like your natural teeth.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET DENTAL IMPLANTS?
If you’re interested in learning whether dental implants are the right fit for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Carpenter today. We’ll examine your oral health and your dental history, as well as talk about your budety and goals for your smile.
If we determine that dental implants are the ideal restorative treatment for you, the first step is to schedule your implant surgery. During this procedure, we will surgically implant a biocompatible titanium rod, which will serve as the anchor (like a natural tooth root) for the rest of the structure. It will take several months for the surgical site to heal and the implant to fuse with your jawbone. After you are healed, we’ll be ready to attach your abutment. Your gums will need about two more weeks to heal before we attach your restoration, whether that be a single crown, a bridge, or even dentures.
HOW LONG WILL MY DENTAL IMPLANTS LAST?
Your dental implants won’t last forever, but their longevity does depend on you! With the proper care, they could last upwards of fifteen years, or more. Just like your natural teeth, you should brush your dental implants twice daily, floss each day, and visit our office regularly for cleanings and exams. While these artificial teeth can’t get cavities, your gums must still remain healthy to protect the integrity of the implantation. Moreover, damaged dental implants can harbor bad bacteria that can cause tooth decay and infection in your remaining natural teeth. Regular dental visits allow our team to keep a close eye on your dental implants and the rest of your smile to ensure that each aspect is healthy and functioning properly.
MORE QUESTIONS? WE HAVE ANSWERS!
To ask our team any questions about dental implants or our other restorative dentistry services, contact our office today.