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Not too long ago, most dentists relied on root canals, bridges, and dentures to fix lost or broken teeth. While these methods helped in some cases, they often weren’t great long-term solutions. Root canals and bridges can fail over time, and dentures can be uncomfortable and hard to use. Thankfully, advances in dental tools and technology have introduced better ways to replace damaged or missing teeth. Nowadays, dental crowns and implants are much more common and offer a great option for tooth replacement. Here’s what you need to know about dental implants:
**What is a Dental Implant?**
When considering a dental implant, it’s important to understand what it is and what to expect from the procedure. A dental implant is a specially designed device made to look and function like a natural tooth. It replaces a missing or damaged tooth in your mouth. Implants are typically made of titanium and other materials and are crafted to blend in seamlessly with your other teeth.
**The Procedure**
Getting a dental implant is a surgical process that takes time. First, an implant is placed into your upper or lower jaw where the tooth is missing. A screw is then inserted into the implant, and the gum tissue is placed over it to secure it in place. After this initial step, there’s a healing period before the next phase begins. In the second step, a post is attached to the implant, and then the artificial tooth (or dental crown) is securely affixed to the post, giving you a new, permanent tooth.
**Looking and Acting Like Real Teeth**
Dental implants look and function just like your natural teeth. No one will be able to tell the difference by looking at them, and they won’t wear down over time. You can brush and care for them just as you would with your real teeth. As long as the surrounding teeth are healthy, your implants should remain problem-free.
The popularity of dental implants has grown significantly over the years. If you’re thinking about getting an implant, it’s crucial to find a skilled oral surgeon in Katy, TX, to ensure the best results. At Darling Dental, Dr. Darlington and his team specialize in these procedures, offering superior care and excellent outcomes to their patients.