Unlike traditional dentures and bridges, our dental implants in Norman provide a permanent and natural-looking solution that can last a lifetime. They not only improve the appearance of your smile but also enhance your oral health and quality of life.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots of titanium surgically placed into the jawbone to support replacement teeth. The implant acts as a strong foundation for the new tooth or teeth, which can be either crowns, bridges, or dentures. These replacement teeth are custom-made to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and size.
The Procedure
The dental implant process is typically completed in several stages over several months. The first step is a consultation with Dr. Patel to determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. We may take X-rays to assess the condition of your jawbone and surrounding teeth.
If you are deemed suitable for the procedure, the next step is placing the implant into the jawbone. This surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, although sedation options may also be available for those who experience anxiety or fear during dental procedures.
After we have placed the implant, it will need time to heal and fuse with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. Depending on each individual’s healing process, this can take three to six months. Once healed, an abutment will be attached to the implant as a connector for the replacement tooth.
The final step is placing the custom-made replacement tooth or teeth onto the abutment. We design these replacement teeth to match your natural teeth in appearance and function, giving you a seamless smile.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer numerous benefits over traditional tooth replacement options such as dentures and bridges. Some of these benefits include:
1) Improved Appearance: Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, providing a more aesthetically pleasing result than other options.
2) Longevity: With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective solution in the long run.
3) Enhanced Oral Health: Unlike bridges, dental implants do not require the grinding down of adjacent healthy teeth for support. This means that your natural teeth remain intact, promoting better oral health.
4) Improved Functionality: Dental implants are anchored into the jawbone, providing a strong and stable foundation for chewing and speaking. This allows you to eat and speak confidently without worrying about your replacement teeth slipping or falling out.
5) Increased Self-Confidence: Missing or damaged teeth can negatively impact self-esteem. Dental implants provide a natural-looking smile, which can boost confidence and self-esteem.
Caring for Your Dental Implants
Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the success and longevity of your dental implants. Like natural teeth, dental implants require regular brushing, flossing, routine dental check-ups, and cleanings. It is also essential to avoid biting down on hard objects or using your teeth to open bottles or packages, which can damage the implant.
In addition, it is essential to quit smoking if you are a smoker. Smoking can inhibit the healing process and increase the risk of complications with dental implants.
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most individuals missing one or more teeth can be considered candidates for dental implants. However, certain factors may affect your eligibility for the procedure, such as:
- Having healthy gums and sufficient jawbone density
- Being in good overall health
- Not being a heavy smoker or unwilling to quit smoking
Dr. Patel will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if dental implants are the right solution for you.
Dental Implants in
Norman, OK
Dental implants offer a permanent, natural-looking solution for replacing missing or damaged teeth. They have numerous benefits, such as improved appearance, longevity, enhanced oral health, functionality, and self-confidence. If you are missing one or more teeth, consult Dr. Patel to see if dental implants are the right solution. Proper care and maintenance allow you to enjoy a beautiful and functional smile for years.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation at University Dental and take the first step toward restoring your smile with dental implants! We offer many high-quality dental services in Norman, Oklahoma, including family and cosmetic dentistry.