Professional Dental Implant Service
for Raleigh, Wake Forest, Garner, Knightdale, & Wendell, NC
Dental implants are a long-lasting, effective solution for replacing missing teeth, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits. At Sunrise Dental, we use high-quality implants to restore your smile and improve your overall oral health. A dental implant consists of a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone, which acts as an artificial tooth root.
Over time, the implant fuses with the bone, providing a strong, stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture. Dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile confidently. They also help preserve jawbone density and prevent the shifting of surrounding teeth, making them an excellent long-term option for tooth replacement.
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Artificial Tooth Placement
The artificial tooth used in dental implants, known as a crown, is custom-made to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth in both appearance and function. After the implant post has securely fused with the jawbone, the crown is attached to the implant via an abutment, completing the restoration.
Crafted from durable, tooth-colored materials like porcelain or ceramic, the artificial tooth mimics the look and feel of a natural tooth, providing a natural-looking smile. In addition to its aesthetic benefits, the artificial tooth restores full chewing and speaking abilities, ensuring that your dental implant functions just as well as a real tooth. This personalized approach ensures a comfortable fit and a long-lasting, beautiful result.
Caring for Your Dental Implant
Caring for a dental implant is similar to maintaining your natural teeth and is crucial for the longevity of the implant. Here are key steps for proper care:
- Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around the implant, just as you would with your natural teeth, to remove plaque and bacteria.
- Floss Daily: Flossing is essential to clean around the implant and prevent gum disease. Special floss or water flossers can be helpful in reaching tight areas around the implant.
- Use Antibacterial Mouthwash: Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria that could lead to infection around the implant.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Visit your dentist regularly to ensure the implant and surrounding tissue remain healthy. Professional cleanings will help remove any buildup that brushing and flossing miss.
- Avoid Hard Foods: To protect the implant and crown, avoid biting down on hard foods or objects, as these can damage the artificial tooth.
By following these care tips, your dental implant can remain in excellent condition for many years to come.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. They consist of a titanium post that acts as an artificial tooth root, which is surgically placed into the jawbone. A custom-made crown is then attached to restore the function and appearance of your natural tooth.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. The titanium post is designed to fuse with the jawbone, providing a stable, durable foundation. The crown may need to be replaced after 10-15 years due to wear, but the implant itself is long-lasting.
Are dental implants painful?
The implant procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring minimal discomfort during surgery. Some soreness and swelling may occur after the procedure, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Most patients find the discomfort to be manageable and temporary.
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Candidates for dental implants generally have healthy gums, adequate jawbone density, and good overall health. If bone loss has occurred, bone grafting may be necessary to support the implant. Your dentist will assess your suitability during a consultation.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Dental implants require regular oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. Routine dental checkups and professional cleanings are also essential to ensure the implant and surrounding tissue remain healthy.