Dental implants are prosthetic replacements for missing teeth. They are surgically implanted into the jaw bone. They replace natural teeth roots and provide stability and strength to artificial teeth that are attached to them.

Dental implants are a great option for those who suffer from missing teeth because they look and feel just like your natural teeth. Additionally, they can restore the normal function of the mouth and smile.

Implant Placement

The implant is placed into the jawbone. Over the next three to six months, the bone bonds with the implant in a process called osseointegration.

Once the implant has bonded with the jawbone, abutments are attached to the implant. These abutments protrude through the gums and provide stable anchors for artificial teeth.

The patient will return to the dentist to have a custom abutment and crown made and placed onto the abutment. This completes the process of implant placement.

Post-implant Placement

After your dentist places the dental implant, he or she will need to wait some weeks for it to fully fuse with the bone and tissue around it. When the implant is ready, your dentist will attach an extension or a restoration to it.

Caring For Your Dental Implants

Once you’ve had your dental implants placed, you should care for your implants the same way you care for your natural teeth. This means brushing and flossing regularly. You should also continue to see your dentist for checkups every six months. During these visits, your dentist will check on your implants to make sure they’re healing properly.

The Durability of Dental Implants

Dental implants are considered a permanent solution to tooth loss. Unlike dentures, they do not require adhesives and are not removable. However, dental implants do require a certain level of maintenance. You may need to have them replaced every 10-20 years.

Other factors that may affect how long your dental implants last include your oral hygiene routine, the activities you participate in, and your eating habits. If you take good care of your dental implants and feed them a healthy diet, they can last much longer.

At Kusek Family & Implant Dentistry, we offer a full range of services, including cosmetic and implant dentistry in a relaxed dental environment. To learn more about our dental services or to schedule your consultation with one of our dentists, call us at 605-371-3443 or visit us at 4921 E. 26th St., Suite 1, Sioux Falls, SD 57110.