Whether you've been missing a tooth most of your adult life or recently lost one to decay or an accident, having an incomplete smile can be
detrimental to your appearance and your dental health. Replacing these teeth, however, is a simple process thanks to dental implants from Dr. Clark Wright, your dentist in Venice, FL. In this blog post, you can learn more about how these dental restorations can change your life.
What is a dental implant?
Dental implants are a three-part tooth restoration that recreates the structure of a natural tooth. The post, which is made of a lightweight metal and shaped like a tiny screw, takes the place of the tooth's roots. The abutment connects the post to the crown, which is the upper portion of the implant and looks exactly like a natural tooth. These restorations are used by your Venice dentist to not only replace permanent teeth that have been lost, but to provide the necessary support for your remaining teeth.
What can I expect from dental implants?
The procedure of placing the implant's post in your jawbone doesn't take long - many patients compare it to a cavity filling in terms of time in the dental chair. After a week or so, the site where your dentist placed the post will heal over. However, it will take several months for the bone and post to fuse, a process that makes dental implants the most stable tooth restoration available. Once this integration is finished, the rest of the implant - the abutment and crown - can be attached to the post. The maintenance involved is just like that of natural teeth: brushing and flossing keeps the surrounding gum tissue clean, and regular checkups with Dr. Wright ensure that your dental implant is staying in place. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
If dental implants sound like something that could improve the way you look and feel, contact the dental office of Dr. Wright in Venice, FL, to schedule a consultation!