Healthy teeth that work as nature intended are essential for a high quality of life and overall health. Anyone with dentures knows what we mean. But there is an alternative to dentures, and they’re available from OKC Smiles in Oklahoma City.
There is no question that dentures are preferable to a completely toothless mouth, but they are not problem free. Your mouth performs multiple basic functions, each of which can be impaired by dentures.
Dentures can make it problematic to chew and taste food. It’s embarrassing to talk when they are slipping around in your mouth, and laughing can dislodge them entirely. They can even make it hard to breathe – and it doesn’t get more basic than that.
Now, dental implants can be used to anchor a set of dentures. Even if you have had dentures for many years, you may be a candidate for dental implants.
Dental implants can be used to replace several teeth and/or anchor over dentures. Mini dental implants (also called denture-stabilization implants) allow your dentist to securely attach an appliance so that it won’t slip or irritate gums. Small titanium posts are implanted into the jawbone and fuse with the surrounding bone, assembling a tough base for an over denture.
Here is the process:
1. Examination and Assessment
During your first visit, we take x-rays and assess your mouth and the condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. We will assess options with you and together you will create a treatment plan.
2. Implant Placement
A complete tooth implant and restoration consists of the actual implant or root replacement, an abutment, and final restoration. The first step is to insert the titanium alloy implant into your jawbone. This is not as difficult or painful as it sounds. Most patients are surprised at how rapid and easy the procedure is.
3. Integration
Implant surgery would not be successful if your jawbone did not welcome an artificial and non-biological tooth root. In the vast majority of cases, the jawbone tightly fuses with the implant to create an extremely strong foundation for the final restoration. It takes from three to six months for the implant to fuse in the jaw.
4. Final Restoration
A connecting piece called an abutment attaches the restoration to the artificial root(s). The crown, bridge, or denture is all that is visible at the end of the process. Dental implant restorations are virtually indistinguishable from original teeth, in both appearance and function.
Dental implant patients of all ages are pleased with the better quality of life implants deliver. Find out more by scheduling a consultation at OKC Smiles in Oklahoma City. We also offer general dentistry. Call today!
Contact OKC Smiles:
405-634-7303
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
13900 S Western Ave, Suite 300
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
73170
