A dental implant is a titanium post placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth and provide stable support for dental restorations. Dental implants are permanent, stable, and made to look and feel like natural teeth.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
- Provide strong, natural-looking tooth replacement
- Offer permanent solutions—unlike bridges or removable dentures
- Function like real teeth and are just as durable and sturdy
- Easy to care for—can be brushed and flossed like natural teeth
- Require regular dental checkups to ensure they remain healthy and functional
The Procedure for Dental Implants
The implant is crafted from biocompatible titanium, meaning:
- It is well tolerated by the body
- It won’t cause irritation or adverse reactions
- Resists corrosion from saliva and other oral fluids
- Becomes extremely stable and secure once placed
Steps Involved in Implant Placement:
- Surgical Placement of the Implant
During the initial procedure, your dentist will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the jawbone. The titanium post is then carefully inserted into the bone where the tooth is missing. After placement, the gum is closed over the implant site. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and is generally well tolerated.
- Healing and Osseointegration
The implant area is allowed to heal for several months, during which a process called osseointegration takes place. During this time, the jawbone naturally grows and fuses around the implant, anchoring it securely in place. This creates a stable base strong enough to support a dental crown or bridge. Healing time may vary depending on individual health and bone quality.
- Post-Operative Care and Maintenance
Keeping your mouth clean after the surgery is crucial to prevent infection and promote healing. Your dentist will provide specific post-op instructions, including how to clean the area and what to avoid during recovery. You may be asked to eat soft foods and avoid strenuous activity for a few days. Following these guidelines helps ensure the implant heals properly and integrates with the bone.
- Placing the Final Restoration
Once the implant has fully healed and bonded with the jawbone, a custom-made restoration—such as a crown, bridge, or denture—is attached to the implant. This restoration is designed to match your natural teeth in shape and color for a seamless look. The final result is a fully functional, aesthetically pleasing tooth replacement. It restores your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. Contact us to learn more.
Post-Procedure Care
To ensure a successful outcome, it’s crucial to:
- Keep your mouth clean during the healing period
- Follow special post-op instructions provided by the dentist
- Avoid tobacco and maintain a soft-food diet for a few days
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress
Once healed, the dental implant functions just like a natural tooth and can fill gaps in your smile beautifully and permanently.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a wide range of functional and aesthetic advantages, including:
- Replace a single missing tooth, several teeth, or a full arch
- Permanent—no slipping like removable dentures
- Can last a lifetime with proper care
- Preserve jawbone density by stimulating bone tissue
- Prevent adjacent teeth from shifting or becoming misaligned
- Help maintain proper bite alignment and facial structure
- Allow you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence
Caring for Dental Implants
Even though they are not natural teeth, dental implants require the same level of care, including:
- Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Flossing daily to remove food particles and bacteria
- Using non-abrasive toothpaste
- Regular visits to our dental office for cleanings and exams
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods that could stress the restoration
Maintaining great oral hygiene will help your implant last a lifetime and preserve the health of surrounding teeth and gums.
Restore Your Smile with Dental Implants in Greenville, NC
Dental implants provide a permanent, stable, and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth. They help preserve jawbone structure, prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, and restore full function for chewing and speaking. With proper care and regular dental visits, implants can last a lifetime and greatly enhance your overall oral health. To find out if you’re a candidate for dental implants, schedule a consultation with Drs. Davila & Velazquez, P.A. in Greenville, NC.
For the best dental care personalized to your unique needs, contact Drs. Davila & Velazquez, P.A. at 1295 East Arlington Blvd Greenville, NC 27858 or call (252) 756-7789.
