Do you wish that you could turn back time and restore your smile? The loss of even one tooth can affect your appearance, self-esteem, and chewing ability. Fortunately, dental implants offered by your Raleigh, NC, dentist, Dr. Ashley Lloyd, can help you fill the gaps in your smile.
Rebuilding your smile starts with your tooth roots
Dental implants replace your natural tooth roots and become firmly attached to your jawbone. The small titanium posts are implanted in your jawbone during minor oral surgery. Once the implants are in place, they'll gradually bond to your jawbone, a process that generally takes three-to-six months to complete.
In some cases, implants are paired with dental crowns to create a set of brand new, completely functional teeth. As soon as your Raleigh dentist determines that your implants have bonded to the jawbone, she'll attach small screws called abutments to the tops of the implants.
She'll also make an impression of your mouth which will be used to create dental crowns, restorations that will replace the visible parts of your teeth. A few weeks later, she'll connect the crowns to the implants to complete the reconstruction of your missing teeth.
Dental implants offer versatility
Implants can be a good choice no matter what your age and can be used to replace any number of missing teeth. As long as your jaw has stopped growing, you may be able to restore your teeth with dental implants.
Do you currently wear dentures but find it difficult to chew tough or hard foods? Implant-supported dentures can restore some of your biting power, making it easier to eat a variety of foods. The dentures are attached directly to four or more implants, or they are connected to a metal framework that's attached to the implants.
Implants protect your smile
Dental implants prevent your other teeth from shifting after tooth loss, helping you avoid a change in your bite. They also keep your jawbone strong by stimulating the bone. After tooth loss, it's not unusual to experience some resorption (shrinking) of the bone. Resorption can eventually cause your other teeth to loosen and may be responsible for facial sagging. Thanks to dental implants, your jaw will remain strong.
Interested? Give us a call
Restore your smile with dental implants! Call your Raleigh, NC, dentist, Dr. Ashley Lloyd, at (919) 828-1001 to schedule an appointment.