4 Signs You Need a Root Canal
Do you know what a root canal is and why it’s performed? If not, you’re not alone. But understanding the procedure — and knowing which symptoms mean it may be time to seek it — is essential to your oral health.
Dental Implants: The Unparalleled Replacement for Missing Teeth
It’s hard to feel confident when you’re missing teeth, especially if your dentures keep slipping out of place. That’s why we offer dental implants at Downtown Dental Studio in the Financial District in New York City. This permanent restoration solution uses titanium implants to secure your dentures or other prostheses securely in place.
Your teeth and your oral health
When you lose a tooth, it’s easy to focus on how it affects your smile alone. But, your teeth play a crucial role in your oral health.
Each tooth has two significant regions. The visible portion above your gumline — the crown — provides stability to your surrounding teeth. Below your gumline is the root. This part of your tooth supports the crown and stimulates bone growth in your jaw.
Losing even a single tooth can compromise the stability and structure of your mouth and increase your chances of developing several dental issues, including:
- Shifting teeth and bite problems
- Excessive wear on your remaining teeth
- Difficulty chewing and speaking
- Changes in your facial structure
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, such as jaw pain and chronic headaches
- Bone loss in your jaw
How dental implants work
There are several ways to replace missing teeth, such as using traditional bridges or dentures. But, these options only replacing the crown, which is above your gumline. A dental implant also replaces the root, making it an unparalleled solution for missing teeth.
The parts
A dental implant involves three parts: the implant, the abutment, and the crown.
- The implant acts as your new artificial tooth root
- The abutment is a tiny connector that is placed on top of the implant to attach the crown
- The crown is your custom-made tooth, which is the only thing seen above the gumline
The process
During your initial appointment, we confirm that dental implants are right for you. This typically involves giving you an oral exam, reviewing your medical and dental history, and taking X-rays to check your jawbone health.
To begin the surgery, we first insert the implant, or root, by making a tiny incision in your gums. Then we drill a small hole in your jawbone and insert the titanium root and close your gums with sutures.
It usually takes 3-6 months for the root to fully fuse with the jawbone. Once it’s fully fused with your jawbone, we will place the abutment on top of your implant and place your new artificial tooth on top of the abutment.
With dental implants, you care for them just like your natural teeth by brushing, flossing, and getting your teeth cleaned twice a year.
To see if dental implants might be right for you, book an appointment online or over the phone with Downtown Dental Studio today.
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