Bryn Mawr
Dr. Amy Shoumer and her professional staff are experts in implant dentistry. If you have missing or damaged teeth, it’s possible you could require a dental implant. Dental implants are great alternatives to dentures or bridges. They result in better overall oral health, and they give you a natural-looking, durable tooth.
A dental implant might be required at any age for various reasons. You might have lost or damaged a tooth due to an injury or tooth decay. Whatever the reason, dental implants provide you with a solution for restoring your bright smile that can last a lifetime!
Dental implants consist of a metal post, usually made of titanium, that acts as a substitute for the root of your tooth. That is then connected to something known as an abutment, and the abutment is then connected to a crown that is made to match your natural teeth.
The crown is typically made of zirconium or porcelain to give it durability and to make it look natural. The post and the abutment are permanent fixtures, but both the abutment and the crown are removable should the need arise. Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth. There are even some cases where they have replaced a full set of both upper and lower teeth.
With proper care, dental implants can last an entire lifetime. You also don’t have to worry about taking them out like you would with dentures. You care for them much like you would your natural teeth in the following manner:
You should also see your dentist every 3 – 6 months or as recommended for your specific situation.
To get dental implants, there are several important steps. After deciding on this course of action, the first step is to place the implant which will be inserted into your jawbone. This is done in coordination with a local implant specialist to ensure you get the best results.
After that comes a step called osseointegration. This simply means allowing bone to grow around the implant to make it secure and stable. This step can take several months, but Dr. Shoumer will let you know how long to expect this to take in your case.
Once the bone has grown around the implant, Dr. Shoumer will place the crown on the abutment. The crown is manufactured to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth. While the crown is being produced, you might get a temporary crown so that your appearance, eating, and speech is not affected by the missing tooth.
If you’re interested in dental implants in Bryn Mawr,, contact our office to schedule an appointment. Dr. Shoumer and her professional will be happy to answer all your questions!
