What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial teeth implanted into the bone structure of your mouth to replace a lost or missing tooth. The post of an implant acts as the root of the tooth and is capped with a crown on the surface which is built to look like your natural tooth.
If you need a tooth replaced due to an illness or accident, call DeBonis Family Dentistry at (412) 761-9594 to see if dental implants are right for you.
Who can have dental implants?
Generally speaking, any aged patient may have a need for dental implants. Consult with our DeBonis Family Dentistry team to learn if you are eligible for the procedure. We consider factors for your eligibility based on:
- Your commitment to good oral health routines
- Whether or not enough bone exists to hold the post of the implant
- Healthy gums
- If your overall health can handle oral surgery and recovery.
In addition to these factors, we also take into account your ability and willingness to keep regular dental appointments every six months.
Dental patients who may need additional care and observation to ensure the dental implant is performing its job include people who:
- Smoke heavily
- Suffer from chronic health disorders such as diabetes and heart disease
- Have had or are undergoing radiation therapy near their neck or head.
Why should I get dental implants?
A variety of reasons exist for receiving dental implants. Both cosmetic and restorative dentistry procedures utilize dental implants for aesthetic purposes and facial reconstruction purposes to improve the functionality of your mouth.
At DeBonis Family Dentistry our highly-trained staff considers attributes such as:
Will you be more comfortable? Dentures and bridges are also used to replace missing teeth. Depending on your situation, one procedure may be better than another.
Is a dental implant strong enough? While very strong, the location of the implant and the condition of the surrounding teeth play a role in a healthy implant.
Does the implant fit properly? Again, depending on your situation, an implant typically fits much more securely than a bridge or dentures.
Would the implant look natural? Implants are one of the most naturally looking solutions to a missing tooth.
Are speech patterns affected? Implants are permanently placed unlike some dentures which can slip out on occasion while talking.
Will you continue good oral hygiene practices? Flossing and brushing are necessary to keep the dental implant in good health.
How do I get a dental implant?
Begin with a consultation with our staff at DeBonis Family Dentistry. We’ll evaluate your mouth and teeth to determine if a dental implant is right for you. We will also go over alternatives so that you have the tools and knowledge to make an educated assessment. Once we’ve discussed your situation, we’ll work with you to create a personal oral treatment plan specifically for you.
How do I care for my dental Implants?
Your dental implants should undergo the same care and attention that you give to your natural teeth. Brush with an ADA recommended toothpaste for two minutes, twice a day, and floss on a daily basis. Follow up your oral hygiene routine with a gentle mouthwash, if necessary. These actions keep dental implants and your original teeth in good health and looking great.
If you are ready for dental implants, give our Ross Township office a call at (412) 761-9594 to schedule you consultation appointment.