Mother Nature knows her stuff: that’s why your teeth are such amazingly durable structures. Today’s dental implants, however, are proof that modern technology can be a master of imitation.
Whether one or several teeth are missing, more implantsand more people today are taking advantage of implants. Replacing a lost tooth is vital to ensuring that the surrounding gum, bone, and teeth remain strong and healthy.
An implant is an artificial tooth that looks, feels, and acts just like a natural one. Inserted into the hole where the root of your original tooth was, it bonds naturally with your jawbone, becoming a permanent part of your mouth.
Being fitted with an implant is a relatively simple process that often takes place under a local anaesthetic. On your first visit, a tiny titanium cylinder is placed in the spot where your tooth is missing. A special coating on the implant encourages the jawbone to grow around it—a process that takes anywhere from three to six months.
When the implant is firmly in place, a porcelain crown is attached to its top, creating a perfect new tooth that only a dentist could tell from the real thing. In addition to replacing missing teeth, implants can also be used to stabilize dentures and support bridges.
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