What Are Dental Implants? – Richardson, TX
Understanding the Best Tooth Replacement Option
Dental implants have quickly become the gold standard for tooth replacement. Afterall, it is the only solution that restores the entire tooth from the roots up. However, before committing to this treatment, you may be wondering exactly what a dental implant is. Dr. Afshin Azmoodeh wants his patients to have the information they need to feel confident in their dentistry. That’s why he has provided some specific details about dental implants in Richardson. Read on to learn more!
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed in the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. Titanium is a biocompatible material, which allows the implants to fuse to the jawbone. This creates sturdy supports for the dental restorations. The type of restoration you need will directly depend on the number of teeth that you’re missing.
After about 3 to 4 months of healing, the implant can be mounted with an abutment—an attachment that connects the implant and the restoration. The last part of the dental implant is the restoration. This is a crown, bridge, or denture than is mounted on top of your implant(s) to complete your smile. The result is a beautiful, confident, and strong set of teeth. Because dental implants restore your teeth from the roots up, they look, feel, and function just like your natural smile.
Important Dental Implant Facts
Getting to know the history of a subject you don’t fully understand can often help with the bigger picture, which is why we’ve provided some significant dental implant facts, including:
- I. Branemark, a Swedish orthopedic surgeon, discovered that titanium naturally fuses to bone in 1952, which eventually led to the development of modern dental implants.
- The first dental implant was traced back to 600 AD, where they were made of tooth-like pieces of shell that were hammered in the jaw.
- Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that stimulates the jawbone to prevent it from deteriorating after tooth loss.
- At least 3 million people have dental implants in the US, and this number is increasing annually by around 500,000.
- Dental implants have a success rate of 95% or higher.
Are you ready to get started on your dental implant treatment? Don’t hesitate to contact our office to schedule a consultation with our dentist in Richardson. Dr. Azmoodeh will carefully examine your oral health, the number of teeth you’re missing, and the strength of your jaw before developing your personalized treatment plan.