Teeth Whitening vs. Veneers: Which is the Better Solution?
Ever wondered about the secrets to a radiant smile? Dive into our latest blog as we unravel the pros and cons of teeth whitening and veneers.
Everything You Need to Know About Dental Implants
Having missing teeth affects more than your smile; it can also seriously impact your oral health. That’s why Dr. Wayne Hofflich and our SmileBoutique team located in Mount Vernon, New York, recommend replacing one or more missing teeth with dental implants.
Here’s what sets dental implants apart from your other tooth replacement options.
How your teeth affect your oral health
Each of your teeth has significant sections. The section above your gum line is the crown. This visible portion gives your teeth structure and stability. Hidden below your gum line is the tooth root. This portion anchors your crown in place and keeps your jaw healthy by stimulating bone growth.
Even losing one tooth affects the stability of your other teeth. It also increases your risk of other dental issues, including:
- Gum disease
- Shifting teeth
- Changes in bite
- Difficulty speaking and chewing
- Excessive or uneven wear on remaining teeth
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, like headaches and jaw pain
And, whether you have one missing tooth or several, your jaw can start to deteriorate because of bone loss, and the appearance of your face can change.
How dental implants can help
Most temporary solutions, like bridges or dentures, only focus on replacing the visible portion of your missing tooth. But a dental implant works by restoring the entire tooth, including the root below your gum line.
A dental implant has three components, including the:
- Implant: the surgical-grade metal post anchored in your jawbone
- Abutment: the tiny connector that attaches your crown to your implant
- Crown: the custom-made prosthetic tooth above your gum line
Getting a dental implant usually takes a few appointments over several months, but they offer superior results that last a lifetime.
What to expect when you get implant
During your first appointment, we perform a comprehensive oral exam, take X-rays, evaluate your jawbone health, and review your medical and dental history. If implants are right for you, we move forward with placing your implant in your jawbone.
Getting dental implants may sound scary, but our team specializes in gentle dental techniques, minimally invasive oral procedures, and we use the most advanced numbing solutions available. That means you can rest easy knowing that getting your implants will be painless, though you may experience some pushing sensations or strange pressure during your appointment.
After your procedure, it’s common to experience mild soreness and swelling, but we provide detailed instructions that keep you comfortable while you heal. It usually takes three to six months for your implant to fuse to your jawbone. At this point, we can attach your abutment and fix your new crown in place.
The benefits of dental implants
There’s a reason why at least 3 million Americans have replaced their missing teeth with implants. This safe and effective dental procedure offers numerous advantages, including:
- Looking, feeling, and functioning like your natural teeth
- Providing a secure fit that doesn’t slip or click when you laugh, talk, or eat
- Helping to retain your smile and natural face shape
- Stimulating jawbone growth
It's also easy to take care of dental implants; just treat them like your natural teeth by brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and getting professional cleanings twice a year. With our guidance, you can expect your implants to last a lifetime.
To learn more about dental implants, contact us to schedule an appointment in Mount Vernon, New York, by calling 914-664-7400 or booking online today.
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