If you are missing one or more teeth, you could be a candidate for dental implants, one of the most popular and effective tooth replacement methods available today. But first you will have to talk to your dentist and perhaps a periodontist to see if you meet the requirements.

Dental implants are basically titanium posts that are fused to the upper or lower jaw. The dental prosthetic, be it a single tooth or an entire set of teeth, is then attached to the post or posts. Dental implants are long lasting and are considered the most tooth-like of all replacement types.

To be a good candidate for dental implants, you must:

• Be free of gum disease, cavities or any other compromising dental issues.
• Have enough jaw bone to maintain a secure base for the titanium post. If not, sometimes surgery can be performed to extend the bone.
• Be free of any chronic disease such as diabetes or leukemia, which can hinder the healing process following surgery.
• Time is also a factor. Depending on how much surgery is needed to replace bone tissue and how many teeth need to be replaced, the entire process can take from several months to as long as a year or more.

In the procedure, the posts are placed first, followed by a period of healing. Next, the crown or bridge is fitted and then constructed. Then, the prosthetic is affixed to the post and, finally, there is usually a follow-up appointment to make sure the implant is working properly.

Dental implants last longer than other tooth replacement options. They’re also more aesthetically pleasing, with the most skilled periodontists and dentists able to create a smile for you that is as close to natural as possible and in many cases even better.

Posted on Behalf of Envy Smile