There are a wide variety of restoration options available today, but none are more effective than dental implants. Implants can be used to replace a single tooth or for whole-mouth restoration. They look more natural than many alternatives and last for years.
If you are interested in dental implants, our professionals at St. Louis Prosthodontics can help. We can get you started on your journey towards achieving the smile of your dreams.
How Are Dental Implants Installed?
Receiving dental implants will require a series of visits to our office as the installation process is more involved than other restorations.
During the initial visit, our team will assess your case through an oral exam and advanced imaging. If you decide to move forward with implants, our team will begin planning your installation.
Some patients will require preparatory procedures if their mouth is not already healthy enough for implants. This includes treatments such as a bone graft or soft tissue graft. Your jawbone must be dense enough to support the strain of the titanium posts, which is why a graft may be needed. A soft tissue graft is necessary if your gum tissue is not as healthy as it should be.
When you return for the implants, our professionals will put you under anesthesia and begin placing a series of titanium posts into your jawbone. The positioning of the posts is determined using the imaging that was taken during your first visit. Once the posts are set, our team can attach your implant crowns to your teeth.
Some patients can receive their final set of implants on the very same day. However, others will need to receive a temporary set and return a few weeks later for the permanent crowns. This will depend on several factors, such as the number of posts being placed and your overall oral health.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants have many benefits when compared to other restorations.
They offer better bite strength and a more natural appearance. They are extremely long-lasting and are easy to take care of. In the event that one of your crowns is damaged, our team can easily replace it and get your smile looking great again in no time.
How Long Do They Last?
The implant posts will last forever and should never need to be replaced. This is because they are made from durable titanium. The crowns are long-lasting but will eventually need replacing. According to Healthline, you can expect them to last anywhere from 10 to 20 years with proper care.
Even after you have received dental implants, regular dental care will still be a must. You should come see us every six months for an oral exam and cleaning. You should also brush your teeth two times per day for two minutes per session. Keeping your implants clean and your gums healthy are vital parts of getting the most out of your dental implants.
If you are interested in achieving a brand new smile through dental implants, our professionals at St. Louis Prosthodontics can help. You can learn about how dental care is affordable for you and schedule your consultation with our team by calling our office at 314-937-5487 today.