When you lose a tooth it can be a very traumatic experience both physically and emotionally. Tooth loss occurs for a number of reasons such as oral trauma, periodontal disease or just genetics. When this happens many people will either get a bridge or crown or opt for dentures. All of these solutions feel less than natural and can come with many unintended complications.
There is, however, a solution that is both permanent and feels, looks and functions just like natural teeth. Dental implants Corpus Christi are becoming more and more popular as patients become aware of their superior fit, form, and function.
What You Should Know About Dental Implants
While implants are typically more expensive than other methods of tooth replacement, they provide superior benefits. Implants are stronger than natural teeth and generally last easily 15-20 years. They are also a more favorable approach than bridgework because they do not depend on neighboring teeth for support. The bottom line is that dental implants permanently solve a temporary problem—but naturally, there are some qualifications in order to receive this procedure.
Dental implants, unlike dentures— are permanently affixed to the jawbone and therefore help maintain bone strength, facial definition and normal oral function without impeding daily activities. However, in order to facilitate the implants patients are required to have healthy gums and adequate bone. A patient must also be committed to excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits, as these are critical to the long-term success of dental implants.
Implants do require surgery and some minor follow up care since a titanium post is drilled into the bone to anchor the crown, there is a small recovery period before the permanent restorative can be affixed. This is not a procedure you just walk into any dentist to have performed. You want a specialist who is specifically trained to perform this type of procedure. Our expert prosthodontists here at Vela Dental Centers have performed many dental implants procedure for patients over the years with overwhelming satisfaction.
Why Most Patients Choose Dental Implants
- The success rate of dental implants is over 95%.
- The lifespan of your dental implants is at least 15-20 years with proper dental care.
- Caring for implants is the same exact care you would give your natural teeth.
- To preserve patients facial structure and bone strength since implants strengthen the jawbone.
What To Expect When Getting Dental Implants At Vela Dental Centers
You already know suffering with missing teeth can be a difficult ordeal. However, even though going to a dental implant specialist may seem a bit anxiety-inducing, it is hands down the best option for restoring your smile and preventing further oral damage.
Advanced techniques used here at Vela Dental centers along with state-of-the-art technology have made dental implant procedures by Vela highly successful and very effective at smile restoration. So that you feel a bit more comfortable with the process let us give you a rundown on what goes on when you visit Vela Dental Centers for a dental implant procedure.
The Initial Visit
The first visit is a scheduled consultation with a dental implant specialist, usually, one of our prosthodontists—to begin exploring the option of dental implants as well as some general information is gathered.
During the consultation, you will receive a comprehensive examination which usually involves a review of your medical and your dental history. X-rays will be administered and impressions of your teeth and gums will be taken so we can create models. Occasionally, if circumstances deem it necessary we will order a CT scan as well. This entire process allows us to see how much jawbone is still intact, as well as locate nerve ending we don’t want to disturb during the process.
The results of the CT scan may indeed show that there isn’t enough jawbone to begin surgery and the dentist may discuss options like bone grafting to build up the jawbone.
Implant Placement
If there is enough jawbone to perform the surgery, the next phase kicks in and this is where the implant is actually placed into the jawbone This is accomplished by drilling a hole into the jawbone to insert the post into. Accurate placement is of utmost importance and is achieved with a plastic surgical guide that is manufactured to meet the needs of your procedure. Typically, with traditional implant procedures, the prosthodontist will allow a few months for healing and fusion to the jawbone before continuing to the next stage.
Placement of Temporary Crown
Once the implant has sufficiently fused to the jawbone, the prosthodontist will affix a special healing cover or crown over the implant for about two weeks to ensure proper healing of surrounding gum tissue. Once healed, an abutment which holds the temporary crown in place will be affixed while waiting on the lab to finish the permanent crown. A temporary crown is screwed on to the abutment while the permanent crown is prepared in the lab.
The Permanent Crown
The final step of the implant process is attaching the permanent crown This is formed using a lifelike replica 3-D model of your teeth, gums, and abutment. The permanent crown will then need to be cemented or screwed onto the abutment. The dentist will also tell you of any special instructions during the procedure.
The post-surgery care regimen is especially important but very simple, it’s no different than regular natural teeth care—Brush, use mouthwash, and floss daily. The upside on dental implants though, is that even if you drink a lot of coffee or eat other foods that would typically stain your teeth, implants just don’t stain! they won’t stain
Let Vela Dental Centers Make You Smile Again
If you are suffering the stigma of missing teeth and want a permanent solution that looks natural and indistinguishable from natural teeth—come see us at either of our locations. We have the expertise and skilled hands to craft the beautiful smile you deserve. We can get you started with a free consultation just contact us for an appointment!
