
Apr
A beautiful, healthy smile is always the goal for patients, but sometimes, life can take a toll on the teeth and gums. Patients who experience tooth loss or extraction may be curious about the treatment options that are available to them. At Main Line Dental Health and Wellness, our Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, area team may suggest solutions like dental implants. Dental implants continue to be considered the “gold standard” in tooth replacement, and for good reason! Let’s look at a few frequently asked questions about dental implants often heard by Drs. Jerald Matt and Naila Bryan.
The team at Main Line Dental Health and Wellness describes dental implants as artificial tooth roots, usually made of titanium, placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth (crown), denture, or dental bridge.
Dental implants have a high success rate and can last many years with proper care. In fact, they are one of the most durable tooth replacement options available. With good oral hygiene habits and regular cleaning and evaluation visits to your dental team, our dental implants can last a lifetime.
Many of our patients ask, “How is it done?” The process of getting dental implants typically involves several different steps. First, Drs. Jerald Matt and Naila Bryan evaluate your oral health and take time to determine if you are a proper candidate for dental implants. If so, they surgically place the implant into your jawbone. The implant is fabricated from titanium and acts as a replacement for the missing tooth’s natural root.
Once the implant has been placed, it will take some time for your jawbone to heal and fuse with the implant. This process, referred to as osseointegration, usually takes several months to complete. During this time, you may be given a temporary tooth replacement option to wear.
After osseointegration is complete, an abutment (a small connector piece) is attached to the implant. This allows a dental crown or bridge to be securely placed on the implant. The crown or bridge is custom-made to match your natural teeth in all aspects, including size, shape, and color.
The implants themselves will last many years with proper care and attention, making it more important than ever for patients to be vigilant about routine dental visits. Cleanings, evaluations, and home dental care habits play a role in the longevity of this and other restorations in the smile.
If you are ready to restore your smile, we invite you to learn about the many advantages of using dental implants to replace missing teeth. Call Drs. Jerald Matt and Naila Bryan at Main Line Dental Health and Wellness to discuss your needs. The office is located at 776 West Lancaster Ave. in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, and can be reached by dialing (610) 947-5566.