You can still remember how fun it used to be to head down to the French Quarter to celebrate Mardi Gras. Oh, the revelry and excitement of those days were beyond words. But, a life altering event would happen later – the loss of your teeth. And after that, you no longer felt the desire to smile and socialize with family and friends, let alone large crowds of people flooding the streets. The time has come, though, for you to make a change; you want your smile and confidence back. Dental implants of New Orleans are the route that you’re considering to restore your teeth, but you’d like to know more about the process before you commit. Thankfully, your local dentist has a wealth of information to share.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are surgically inserted titanium posts that are affixed to your jawbone. Titanium is the material of choice because of two reasons:
- Biocompatibility – Your body recognizes the material as being similar in molecular structure to your bones, so it doesn’t reject it. Instead, over time the titanium and your jawbone fuse to form a super sturdy foundation.
- Durability – An added plus of titanium is that it is extremely durable, providing the type of longevity that you’re looking for in a permanent appliance.
The 3 Parts of the Dental Implant
There are 3 steps to the procedure:
- Implant Post – As discussed above, this is the initial insertion of the post into your jawbone.
- Abutment – After your jawbone has fused with the post, an opening is made in your gum tissue so that an abutment can be attached, allowing the tissue to heal properly and providing an anchor for the replacement crown.
- Restoration Attached – After a couple of weeks, your custom-made crown will be attached, and you’ll be back to normal.
What are Implant-Supported Dentures?
An option you have in cases where a whole row of teeth is missing, is implant-supported dentures. These are different from traditional dentures in that they don’t rest on the gums, nor require an adhesive to hold them in place. Instead, they attach to your dental implants to provide a level of security unmatched by their conventional counterparts.
Your dentures consist of porcelain teeth set in a gum-colored base, made from a durable resin compound. There are button-like attachments called locators affixed to the base, that allow your new appliances to securely fasten to your implants.
With the dental implant method, you can be sure to prevent bone loss and premature wrinkling because your jawbone will have the support that it needs to flourish. Furthermore, you will be able to once again enjoy life.
Reach out to your dentist in New Orleans to learn more about how you can take advantage of this amazing opportunity. So watch out French Quarters – there’s a new and improved version of yourself coming soon!
About the Author
Dr. Kerry Plaisance, Jr. earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Louisiana State University. Rated as a Top Dentist in New Orleans for the past 10 years, Dr. Plaisance practices at deJong & Plaisance Family Dentistry and can be reached for more information through his website.
