What can change your personal appearance, self-confidence, chewing, and biting more quickly than anything? Tooth loss can as empty 
spaces cause bone and gum resorption and movement of any remaining teeth. A complete smile suddenly can be gapped and dysfunctional when a tooth is lost to trauma, periodontal disease or extensive decay and infection. However, the faster you replace that missing tooth with a modern dental implant, the more quickly your smile can normalize. Just ask Dr. Mark Richardson in Kalamazoo, MI about how dental implants can help your smile.
The typical dental implant
Actually, it's not so typical because its main structural component, titanium, has the ability to meld with human bone. So when the implant screw is placed into a patient's empty socket, the jaw bone immediately begins to osseointegrate, or fuse, with the device. Truly, the process is miraculous as it forms a strong bond capable of supporting the forces exerted on the metal alloy extension post and realistic porcelain crown. In fact, the more an implant is used, the sturdier it becomes.
The procedure
First, you must be cleared for the dental implant procedure. In his Kalamazoo office, Dr. Richardson will examine your teeth and gums and take X-rays to determine if you have adequate bone in your jaw to support the titanium implant. If you do, he'll refer you to an oral surgeon to place the dental implant.
Over the ensuing weeks, your jaw and implant will integrate, the healing process is critical to dental implant success and retention. When you return to Dr. Richardson, he safely can attach the extension post and customized porcelain crown.:
Living with a dental implant
Well, your smile gap (or gaps) will disappear. In its place will be a fully functional tooth that feels and looks incredibly real. Then, you'll be able to bite, chew, and speak perfectly without that unsightly space bothering you.
Next, you'll brush and floss your implant just as you do your natural teeth. Be sure to keep it free from plaque and tartar so the gums and bone stay healthy, and see Dr. Richardson twice a year. He'll check your oral health and the condition of the implant, and you'll receive your usual hygienic cleaning.
Versatile and durable
That describes this great tooth replacement. Dental implants serve as anchors for fixed bridgework and partial/full dentures, too. So if you have more than one smile gap or wear conventional dentures already, Dr. Richardson can work with you to complete your smile with implants. Most implant patients keep their prosthetics for the rest of their lives, says the Institute for Dental Implant Awareness.
Lose the gaps
And, improve your smile. Why not learn more about dental implants from a Kalamazoo, MI expert like Dr. Mark Richardson? Call his office today to arrange your individualized consultation: (269) 343-6907.