If you're considering getting dental implants, you may have a few questions about whether or not these devices are for you. Dentures or bridges that were affixed with cement or adhesive were the method for replacing lost or missing teeth in the past. While dentures and bridges are still used today, many patients have opted for implants instead. The implantation technology offers a stronger and more permanent attachment that the old adhesive and cement methods. Here are some things to think about:
How are these devices attached? You may be wondering how they are attached if cement or adhesive isn't used. Each false tooth is anchored to the jawbone with a titanium screw. The bone actually grows over the titanium, creating a near permanent attachment.
Why titanium? Many patients wonder how dentists ever came up with titanium as a material of choice. Why not steel or brass, they may wonder. It turns out that a European doctor was performing experiments with human bone when he discovered the amazing connection between skeletons and titanium. These materials attach to each other in an amazingly strong way.
Who was the doctor who discovered this? The name of the doctor, who was also a professor, was Dr. Branemark. He lived in Lund, Sweden and came upon this discovery by accident. This was back in 1952.
How long does it take to implant these false teeth? It takes a few months and a series of appointments. First, the titanium device has to be placed. Time must pass while the bone and screw bond to each other. Next an abutment is placed over the screw and finally the crown which looks quite natural. Dentists always match the devices with the other teeth to obtain the most natural looking effect.
Can a person eat normally with dental implants in place? Yes, unlike dentures that may slip around, individuals with implants can eat anything they want without worrying about slipping teeth. They can also speak normally and not have to worry about a period of adjustment as they would with dentures.
What are the benefits of these devices? When a person has lost or is missing teeth, this affects his or her well being in a variety of ways both emotionally and physically. Emotionally, a person without teeth may feel embarrassed and try to keep his or her mouth closed. This may lead to becoming socially withdrawn, being perceived as unhappy due to lack of smiling and avoiding social dining experiences. Physically, without the ability to chew certain foods, an individual may become malnourished. Once a few teeth are missing, the surrounding oral structures will begin to collapse, as well.
How long will dental implants last? With proper care, these prosthetic devices should last as long as natural teeth or even longer. A person will still need to brush, floss and see a dentist regularly for cleaning and exams.
Dental implants are the preferred method of replacing lost teeth. If a person was interested in obtaining them, he or she should make an appointment with a dentist who is skilled in this revolutionary product.
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