Health

What Do Dental Implants Look Like: Everything You Need to Know

Have you ever considered getting dental implants? If you have missing teeth or are unhappy with your dentures, dental implants could be the solution you’re looking for. But what do dental implants look like?

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about dental implants, including what they look like, how they’re made, and how the procedure works.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically implanted into your jawbone. After they’re implanted, a crown or bridge is placed on top of the implant to replace your missing teeth. Dental implants are a popular option for people with missing teeth because they look and feel like natural teeth.

What are the types of dental implants?

There are two types of dental implants: endosteal implants and subperiosteal implants. Endosteal implants are the most common type of implant and are implanted directly into your jawbone. Subperiosteal implants are placed on top of your jawbone and are used for people who don’t have enough bone density to support endosteal implants.

What are dental implants made of?

Dental implants are made of three parts: the implant post, the abutment, and the crown or bridge. The implant post is made of titanium, which is a lightweight and durable metal that’s biocompatible with the human body. The abutment is usually made of porcelain or ceramic, and the crown or bridge is made of porcelain or acrylic.

What do dental implants look like?

Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. The crown or bridge that’s placed on top of the implant is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. Depending on the type of implant you get, the implant post may be visible or hidden under your gums.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. This is because the implant post fuses with your jawbone over time, creating a strong and stable foundation for your replacement teeth. However, the crown or bridge that’s placed on top of the implant may need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years.

Benefits of dental implants

Dental implants offer a variety of benefits, including:

  • Improved appearance and self-confidence
  • Improved speech and chewing ability
  • Increased comfort and convenience compared to dentures
  • Improved oral health by preventing bone loss

Risks and complications

Like any surgical procedure, dental implants come with risks and complications. Some potential risks include infection, nerve damage, and implant failure. However, these risks are rare and can be minimized with proper aftercare and maintenance.

How the dental implant procedure works

The dental implant procedure typically takes place over several months. First, the implant post is implanted into your jawbone. Then, you’ll need to wait several months for the post to fuse with your bone in a process called osseointegration. Once osseointegration is complete, the abutment and crown or bridge are placed on top of the implant.

Aftercare for dental implants

After you get dental implants, it’s important to take proper care of them to ensure they last a lifetime. This includes brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding hard or sticky foods, and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups.

Conclusion

Dental implants are a popular and effective option for people with missing teeth. They look and feel like natural teeth and are designed to last a lifetime. If you’re considering dental implants or have more questions about what they look like, talk to your dentist to learn more.

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