Dental Implants
At Wayne T. Yee, DDS, dental implants are artificial tooth roots that serve as anchors for replacement teeth. When a patient is missing one or more teeth, dental implants provide a stable foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures. The implants are small titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. Once the implants have integrated with the bone, replacement teeth are attached. Implants look and function like natural teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants do not need to be removed for cleaning. You can brush and floss them just like your natural teeth. They also do not require any special care other than regular brushing and flossing.
The Procedure for Dental Implants
The dental implant procedure begins with an evaluation of your oral health. Your dentist will carefully examine your teeth and gums to determine if you are eligible for implants. If you have enough healthy bone structure in your jaw to support the implant, your dentist will create a treatment plan for you.
The dentist incurs the gums during the procedure to expose the jaw bone. Next, they drill a small hole into the bone and insert the titanium post. The post is then left to heal for several months. During this time, the bone fuses with the post through osseointegration. Once the post has healed, your dentist attaches a post or abutment. Finally, a crown is attached to the abutment to complete the restoration process.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Restored Functionality
One of the primary benefits of dental implants is the restoration of functionality. Unlike traditional dentures, dental implants are anchored securely into the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for replacement teeth. This stability allows you to chew, speak, and eat confidently, just like natural teeth.
Improved Appearance and Self-Confidence
Dental implants are designed to look and feel like natural teeth. The custom-made crowns or bridges attached to the implants closely match the color, size, and shape of your existing teeth, ensuring a seamless and beautiful smile. With dental implants, you can regain self-confidence, smile freely, and feel comfortable in social interactions without worrying about loose or ill-fitting dentures.
Preserves Jawbone and Facial Structure
When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone deteriorates over time due to a lack of stimulation. Dental implants provide the necessary stimulation to the jawbone, preventing bone loss and preserving facial structure. This ensures that your face maintains its natural shape and prevents the sunken appearance often associated with tooth loss.
Remember, dental implants can transform your smile, improve your quality of life, and give you the confidence to enjoy life to the fullest. If you have missing teeth, contact Wayne T. Yee, DDS, at 3125 Coffee Rd # 1, Modesto, CA 95355, or call (209) 529-2726 to explore the possibilities of dental implants.
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