If you lack one or more permanent teeth, you’re at a higher risk of experiencing a series of dental complications. Dr. Kiran Rapal, DDS, and her team offer dental implants Saratoga to restore optimal dental health and prevent complications like bone loss, chewing, and speaking difficulties.
An overview of dental implants
Dental implants refer to artificial tooth roots that replace severely decayed or missing teeth due to trauma or disease. They are standard titanium posts your doctor implants into the missing teeth socket to complete your smile and prevent bone loss. Once the implant bonds with your bone, you may need to return to your dentist for a crown. Dr. Rapal may take impressions of your mouth to create custom dental implants that blend in with your natural teeth. With good oral hygiene, dental implants can remain intact for life.
When to consider getting a dental implant
During your appointment, Dr. Rapal and her team examine your mouth before determining if you’re eligible for dental implants. They may also discuss your dental goals and show pictures of the final results before preparing you for dental implant surgery. You can get a dental implant if you’re healthy enough to undergo tooth extraction and have an adequate bone. You should also be committed to good dental hygiene and faithful to regular dental visits.
Suppose your missing teeth affect your overall issues and lead to issues such as speech problems, increased risk for gum disease and infection, crooked or gapped teeth or difficulty chewing. In that case, you should consult your doctor about dental implants. In addition to distorting your smile, missing teeth can cause bone loss and gum recession, weakening the remaining teeth. In dental implant surgery, Dr. Rapal restores your smile while preventing future complications. She personalizes your oral care based on your unique dental needs.
How you can benefit from dental implants
In addition to improving your smile and facial appearance, dental implants also improve your speech. Unlike poorly fitting dentures that may cause you to slur your words, implants are permanent and allow you to speak clearly. They are also comfortable, and you don’t need to remove them during meals or brushing, unlike dentures. Dental implants also optimize your ability to chew comfortably without experiencing pain in your gums.
What a dental implant surgery involves
Dr. Rapal first develops a treatment plan and helps you choose an implant option that satisfies your needs. She administers an anesthetic during the procedure to ensure you’re comfortable throughout. She then implants the prosthesis into the bone socket. Your provider may send you home to allow the jawbone to heal and fuse with the implant before your next appointment. Healing may take approximately six to twelve weeks. Afterward, your doctor attaches an abutment to secure the new tooth and takes impressions of your teeth to design custom crowns. Your dentist ensures to create crows that match your teeth so that you can smile confidently without being self-aware.
To explore the excellent results of dental implants, call Dr. Rapal or book an appointment online.
