Nov
Tooth loss can compromise your smile, eating ability, oral health, and more. When replacing lost teeth, you should choose a treatment that restores your smile completely so you can live a high quality of life. If you want the next best thing to natural teeth, your Orlando, Florida dentist, Dr. John Russo, recommends dental implants. Here, we answer your questions about implant treatment and explain the process of getting dental implants to assist you in determining if they are a suitable option for you.
Implants are small, titanium screws that function as artificial tooth roots. When combined with a dental crown, bridge, or dentures, implants help restore your smile after losing one or more natural teeth.
Dr. Russo will evaluate your gums and teeth thoroughly to determine if you’re a good candidate for implant treatment. If so, we’ll discuss your procedure options, map out a treatment plan, and schedule implant surgery.
Implant surgery is done under local anesthesia along with sedation, if you desire, to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. Once your mouth is numb, Dr. Russo will make an incision in your gum to access your jawbone, where the implants will be placed. We’ll then drill a hole in your jawbone, insert the implants deep inside your jaw, and suture your gum closed for healing.
Next, there is a waiting period of 3 to 6 months to allow time for the implants to fuse with your bone tissue. When the implants have fully integrated with your jawbone, restorations will be attached to replace your lost teeth.
The best implant candidates are people who are generally healthy, have good oral health, and have sufficient jawbone density to support implants. If you have chronic health issues or are addicted to cigarettes, you may not qualify for implants, as these factors can hinder your recovery from surgery.
One of the greatest advantages of implants is longevity. With good oral care, implants can last 25 or more years, which for many people is a lifetime.
Implants can be brushed and flossed just like natural teeth. You should also see your dentist biannually for routine cleanings. Routine checkups allow Dr. Russo to check the implants to ensure they’re strong, healthy, and holding up as they should.
Dental implants can restore most, if not all, of your chewing power, allowing you to enjoy all your favorite foods comfortably. You don’t have to worry about your implant teeth coming loose as they’re anchored firmly in place by titanium tooth roots. Replacing missing teeth with implants will make eating a joy again!
To restore your smile’s health and beauty with quality dental implant treatment, contact Dr. John Russo in Orlando, FL, at (407) 470-1224.