Tooth loss is a potentially devastating oral health problem. That is why dental implants have been so life-changing for people who are living with incomplete smiles.
Our Toluca Lake dentists hear from patients of many ages who want to learn more about dental implants. So today, we are using our blog to answer some of the questions we commonly field from people in search of replacement teeth. Let’s get started!
Q: I heard that dental implants are permanent, but how do they stay in place?
A: Every dental implant crown—the visible portion of the replacement tooth that you can see above your gum line, is held in the patient’s mouth with a titanium implant “root.” The implant root is essentially a titanium screw. This root anchors the replacement tooth, and keeps it from moving around.
Q: So how do I care for my dental implants?
A: Once your implant is in place, you are not going to be able to take it out. Consequently, you’ll care for your replacement teeth by brushing, flossing, using mouthwash, and completing professional dental cleanings. Dental implants are durable and resistant to staining, so with proper care, these replacement teeth will last for decades before they need to be repaired.
Q: How do I know if I’m a good candidate for dental implants?
A: First of all, many different types of dental patients are strong candidates for implants. The best way to find out, for sure, is to contact a dentist and complete a consultation. The one concern that delays treatment for some patients is diminished bone tissue density. If your jawbone is not strong, our dental team may need to complete bone tissue grafts prior to inserting your dental implant root.
To get even more information about dental implants, you can always call our Toluca Lake dentists. And don’t forget to check out the dental implant’s page on our website!