There are few things worse than going through life with holes in your mouth due to missing teeth. Traditionally, the only solution dentists offered was dentures. There is a newer technology available that has given hope to many people wanting to permanently restore their smiles in a natural-looking way.
Dental implants are surgically placed into your jaw bone. These durable titanium rods eventually fuse with your bone, literally becoming a permanent part of your body. Once the implants have healed, replacement teeth are placed on top to complete the restoration. The end result are teeth that look and feel like real ones. Implants do not have the problems often associated with dentures such as shifting, loosening, or affecting speech or diet.
If you are thinking about dental implants, it is important to find a dentist who is trained and experienced in this procedure. Not every dentist is skilled in implants, so do your research to find a suitable dentist who you trust. First, ask your general dentist for recommendations. Also ask friends, family, and coworkers for suggestions for dentists they know of who are qualified in dental implants.
Do your own research on the internet or phone book to find reputable dentists in your area. Then call or go by the dental offices. A visit to a dentist is always a good idea so that you can see first-hand what the office is like, meet the staff, learn about the dentist’s credentials, and see how the office is run. You not only want a dentist who is trained to perform implants, but also runs a caring and efficient office.
Once you find a dentist you are considering for your implants, make an appointment for a consultation. Ask all of the questions you might have, ask to see photographs, and get all of the details you need about treatment, costs, and recovery. If you are uncomfortable with any aspect of what you find out at your consultation, continue interviewing other dentists until you find the right one to meet your dental implant needs.