An estimated 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. That’s nearly half the national population. One or more missing molars can make activities like eating more difficult. In addition, it can also be aesthetically unappealing to have a tooth missing in the front of the mouth. Fortunately, dental implants in Irvine CA can restore missing molars with artificial prosthetics that look, feel, and function just like real teeth.
Are you contemplating dental implants in Irvine CA? If so, then you may find it helpful to learn what the procedure entails and what you can expect. It should be pointed out that the procedure occurs in multiple steps implemented over multiple sessions. In other words, do expect to make frequent trips from the initial procedure until the implant is completely fused with the gums and surrounding bones.
In the first stage, the implant is buried underneath the gum and flush with the bone. This protects the implant from impact from food and your tongue while the area heals over the next several days. In some cases, a portion of the surrounding gums may have to be removed.
The second stage involves the placement of a material called the abutment. This is a post-like device that penetrates through the gum and helps connect the implant to the artificial tooth that will be later installed. The abutment will typically need to be custom made in order to properly fit beneath the gums. After the abutment is placed, there will likely be one or two follow-up sessions where your dentist will inspect the implant and abutment to ensure that the gums around them have fully healed. In some cases, the implant, abutment, or both, will need to be readjusted.
If everything is in order, then the third and final stage will begin, which involves the placement of the artificial tooth. Keep in mind that this is the general gist of dental implants in Irvine CA. There are other variations of the procedure, some of which may involve more steps if more than one implant is being inserted.
Do speak with your dentist to learn more about how implants work and the options available to you. Replacing a missing tooth with an implant will make you feel as if a new tooth has grown in place of the one lost.
Speak to your dentist to enquire about dental implants in Irvine CA if you are contemplating having a missing tooth replaced. Business Name will not only restore your smile but make your mouth feel whole again.