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Curious about dental implants? If you're missing one or more teeth, you should learn all you can about these amazing tooth replacements. .jpg)
Dr. James Lewis, your dentist in New Port Richey, FL, and serving Trinity, places dental implants. Implants increase bone density, optimize biting and chewing and look completely natural.
Questions about dental implants
What does a dental implant do? A dental implant replaces a missing tooth, or when more than one is placed, implants anchor full or partial dentures. Both dentists and patients consider implants as today's best artificial teeth.
I understand dental implants are made of titanium. Why use this metal? The actual implant device typically is fashioned from titanium. Screw-like or cylindrical in shape, implants are situated in the jaw bone itself, just as natural tooth roots are. As implant sites heal, the bone bonds to the devices through osseointegration. Through a true miracle of Nature, titanium and human bone cells become practically inseparable.
How long will my implant last? It will last indefinitely--even for the rest of your life. Both the outcome of your implant procedure and the device's lifespan depends on your oral health and on your hygiene habits--in-office check-ups and cleanings with your dentist in New Port Richey and Trinity, along with proper brushing and flossing at home. Also, your oral health, systemic well-being and implant life improve if you stop smoking or using smokeless tobacco.
Are dental implants strong? Yes, implants are very strong and stable. In fact, they function just as well as healthy natural teeth, allowing you to eat corn on the cob, apples and other foods which wearers of conventional dentures avoid.
Can anyone get dental implants? Usually, healthy teenagers and adults with sufficient bone in their jaws can. If you are pregnant, undergoing cancer treatment or have trouble controlling your blood glucose levels, you may have to postpone implant procedures.
Will implant placement hurt? It's no more uncomfortable than a deep filling or crown placement. Dr. Lewis numbs the implant site with local anesthetic before beginning the one-hour oral surgery. Afterwards, acetaminophen or ibuprofen takes care of any tenderness from the sutures.
Can dental implants fail? The Academy of Osseointegration says that implants can indeed fail, but this is relatively rare. Gum disease around the implant site (peri-implantitis) may necessitate implant removal as may tobacco usage. Also, excessive forces associated with teeth grinding may wear the supporting bone. Dr. Lewis will carefully evaluate you before proposing implant placement.
Find out more
Before you decide on any tooth-replacement option, please contact Dr. James Lewis serving New Port Richey and Trinity, FL, for a one-on-one consultation. He is a Fellow in the International College of Oral Implantology and has wonderful expertise and experience. Call today: (727) 372-7887.
