If you’re considering the possibility of an implant procedure, you will more than likely have questions for Dr. Darrin A. Rapoport and Dr. Ralf F. Shuler. You might be wondering how dental implants compare to your regular teeth and if you’ll be able to notice any differences. Here at Pacific Northwest Periodontal in Seattle, we want to fill you in with all you need to know about the similarities and differences between dental implants and your regular teeth. Having our patients understand and be comfortable with our procedures is of the utmost importance to us. Schedule an appointment for examination today to see if dental implants are right for you!
Dental Implants Are More Durable
One of our primary goals in our implant dentistry practice is to provide the same form and function as your natural teeth. However, with that in mind, it is important to note that an implant is not a tooth. Since it is made out of a titanium base and, in most cases, a ceramic exterior, an implant is not capable of decay and does not have the dental pulp or a periodontal membrane that occur with your other teeth. This means they normally last just as long as your other teeth and can endure more.
Dental implants are composed of three distinct components that make up the layers of the tooth: the implant body, the abutment, and the restoration. This differs greatly from regular teeth as the layers are less apparent in natural teeth, and therefore blend together more. Having more discernable, separate layers is what keeps dental implants from being nearly as susceptible to bacteria and decay.
With that being said, it is still extremely important after having a procedure to take care of your implant by keeping up good oral hygiene habits and getting routine checkups as you would for your natural teeth. This is because your implant needs time to form a strong bond with your jawbone in order to be less susceptible to gum disease or misalignment. In this way, an implant is still very similar to a tooth!
Look and Feel of Dental Implants
When it comes to the look and the feel of an implant, it is very difficult to decipher many differences. They are very aesthetically pleasing as good dentists are able to get the color and shape to replicate the old tooth almost identically. After receiving a dental implant and following the post-operation procedure, it is also hardly noticeable to you in terms of feeling. Especially when compared to dentures or dental bridges, implants have a lot less noticeable sensation. They also are more functional as they can still be cleaned and flossed just like your other teeth.
Overall, dental implants are the next best thing to your natural teeth. They allow you to have all of the same functionality that you do with your other teeth, but they can withstand more in many cases. As long as they are inserted with the correct procedure by certified, credentialed Doctors like ours at Pacific Northwest Periodontics, they will bring your smile back and greater than ever. If you’re interested in seeing if a dental implant is right for you, schedule a consultation today!
