Dental implants replace missing teeth. They are made of 3 parts: the implant, the abutment, and the crown. The implant is placed into a patient's jaw bone and the abutment connects the implant to the crown to restore the appearance and functionality of the smile.
Dental implants are made from durable titanium that can last for years with proper maintenance and care. Once the crown is placed, the dental implant fits in seamlessly with your natural smile.
Dr. Homsi is a trained prosthodontist and is actively pursuing a fellowship in Prosthodontics at the prestigious University of Washington School of Dental Medicine. Because Prosthodontists specialize in the dental prosthetics, ie. dental crowns or arch of teeth, that complete the procedure, they can plan treatment that focuses on the result. This ensures you get a smile that looks natural and stays functional for the long-term.
Many people express concern about the potential pain associated with the dental implant procedure. However, the reality is that most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. At Primavera Dental Group, Dr. Moetaz Homsi ensures that the process is as painless as possible by using modern anesthesia techniques. The procedure itself is usually performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area completely. This means you should not feel any pain during the implantation itself.
After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort, similar to other dental procedures. This can include minor swelling, bruising, or mild pain at the implant site. However, these symptoms are typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and should subside within a few days. It's important to remember that everyone's pain tolerance and recovery is different, so experiences can vary.
While dental implants have a high success rate and offer several advantages over other tooth replacement options, there can be potential downsides to consider. One of the main considerations is cost. Dental implants can be more expensive upfront than other options like dentures or bridges. However, they often prove to be more cost-effective in the long run due to their durability and low maintenance requirements.
Another potential downside could be the time commitment. The process of getting dental implants can be lengthy, often requiring several appointments over a few months. This is because the implant needs time to fuse with the bone in a process known as osseointegration before the final crown can be placed.
Lastly, as with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of complications such as infection, nerve damage, or sinus problems. However, these risks are relatively low and can be further minimized by choosing a skilled and experienced dental professional like Dr. Moetaz Homsi at Primavera Dental Group.
The longevity of dental implants can vary based on several factors, including the patient's overall health, oral hygiene habits, and the location of the implant in the mouth. However, with proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last many years and often for a lifetime.
The implant itself, which is made of titanium, is designed to fuse with your jawbone, making it a permanent part of your mouth. The crown, or the visible part of the tooth, can last 10-15 years before it may need replacement due to wear and tear.
Good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can significantly extend the lifespan of your dental implants. Avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also contribute to the longevity of your implants.
At Primavera Dental Group, Dr. Moetaz Homsi uses high-quality materials and advanced techniques to ensure the best possible outcome for your dental implants, giving you a durable and natural-looking solution to missing teeth.