Dental Implants: What are they?
While the term “Dental Implants” is likely to ring a few bells, chances are that the exact purpose and meaning behind this term might not be so familiar. Although an increasingly common and well-known practice within the dental community, dental implants continue to remain an aura of mystery among the general public. Today dental implants are probably one of the most advanced and efficient methods of tooth replacement available in modern dentistry.
The dental implant simply put; is a synthetic custom-fitted tooth that is placed within your mouth, specifically to replace the natural tooth. Once successfully fitted and applied, the implant provides a durable, aesthetically pleasing and often permanent replacement. Although still a relatively new concept for those outside the realm of professional dentistry, dental implants have quickly become a hit among both patients and practitioners alike and continues to take the world of dentistry by storm!
Dental Implants: The Purpose
While obviously your teeth are very tough, but did you know that your teeth are in fact harder than any bone in your entire body? To some, this may come as a surprise. To others it makes a great deal of sense, as your teeth have the extremely important task of breaking down your food for consumption. Unfortunately, even as tough as your teeth are, there are many factors such as hard foods, acidic substances, or simply neglect and old age, that can potentially damage or destroy your teeth. Additionally, it’s important to realize that if you are missing one or several teeth, the hindered ability to properly chew and break down food may likely put additional wear and tear on your remaining teeth and surrounding gums. Therefore, it is imperative to replace a tooth if damage or decay has begun to occur, as the condition may worsen over time.
Dental Implants: The Process
If elected to receive dental implants, you may find yourself somewhat anxious to receive the treatment, due in part to its namesake. While indeed a name like “dental implant” does sound somewhat off-putting and perhaps even intimidating, the procedure itself is quite benign in nature. The process begins with inserting a small screw within the empty gum space from where the tooth is missing, thereby acting as a substitute for the tooth’s roots. Once in place, the top half of the screw is fitted with a custom abutment that can be adjusted to match the exact size, shape, and color of your teeth, thus rendering it virtually unnoticeable. Although relatively simple and straight forward, the time required to complete the procedure may vary from one patient to another and might require additional appointments to fully complete.
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Dental Implants: A Fan Favorite!
Although dental implants have yet to truly become a household name among the non-dental community, the popularity of the modern dental implant continues to grow at a steady rate, while simultaneously providing patients everywhere with a seemingly flawless smile! So, please remember, if you or someone you know suffers with broken, rotten, or missing teeth, perhaps the highly favored dental implants are the right answer, and who knows? Maybe you’ll become a fan too!
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Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek is a dental implant dentist and his experienced, friendly team at GPS Dental offer affordable family dentistry and gentle dental care in the San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at (210) 633-3477 to make an appointment.
