Dental Implants in Decatur

Maintaining good dental hygiene is crucial for one’s overall health. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, things can go wrong. We might end up losing a tooth – due to injury, disease, or even age. But the good news is that dental implants can be a wonderful solution to this problem. At Christian Family Dentistry, we offer top-notch dental implants in Decatur. In this blog post, we shall discuss everything you need to know about dental implants, and how they can help you restore your beautiful smile.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a type of tooth replacement option that is designed to replace missing teeth permanently. They consist of a small titanium post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone to serve as the root of the missing tooth. A connector piece called an abutment, is then attached to the top of the post, which supports a prosthetic tooth or crown.

Dental implants in Decatur are popular because they provide a natural look and feel, are long-lasting, and function like natural teeth. They can also help prevent bone loss in the jaw and improve your overall oral health.

Why Choose Dental Implants?

Dental implants are the next best thing to natural teeth, in terms of form and function. They are designed to last for a lifetime if taken care of properly. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants do not require any special cleaning or maintenance. You can brush and floss them just like your natural teeth. Dental implants also help preserve the jawbone and facial structure, which can start to deteriorate after tooth loss. They can improve your speech, chewing ability, and overall confidence. At Christian Family Dentistry, we use top-notch materials and advanced technology for our dental implants in Decatur.

How are Dental Implants Placed?

The process of getting dental implants involves several steps and may take several months to complete. First, the dentist will assess your oral and overall health, and determine whether you have enough bone density to support the implants. If not, you may need a bone graft or other preparatory procedure. Next, the dentist will surgically place the implant into your jawbone, under local anesthesia. It may take a few months for the implant to fuse with the bone, in a process called osseointegration. Once this is done, the dentist will place an abutment and a crown on top of the implant, which will function as your new tooth.

What to Expect After Dental Implant Surgery?

After the implant surgery, you may have some swelling, pain, or bleeding for a few days. You will need to eat soft foods and avoid hard or sticky ones until the area heals. You may also need to take antibiotics or painkillers, as prescribed by the dentist. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene and keep the implant area clean, to prevent infection or complications. The dentist will schedule follow-up visits, to monitor your progress and adjust the implant as needed.

Do dental implants last?

Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution for missing teeth, and if properly cared for, they can last a lifetime. The success and longevity of dental implants in Decatur depend on various factors, such as the patient’s oral hygiene habits, overall health, and lifestyle choices. Patients who maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting their dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups, are more likely to have long-lasting dental implants. Additionally, patients who avoid tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption can also improve the longevity of their dental implants. It’s important to note that while dental implants are designed to last, they may require occasional maintenance or repair over time.

In conclusion, dental implants can be a life-changing, and life-long, solution for missing teeth. They are highly effective, safe, and durable, and can restore your smile and confidence. At Christian Family Dentistry, we are committed to providing the best dental implants in Decatur, and helping our patients achieve optimal oral health. If you have any questions or concerns about dental implants or any other dental treatment, please feel free to contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you, and helping you get the smile you deserve!