If you just went into your dentist office and they started talking about dental implants, you may not know the first thing about them. To help you learn a little bit more about this oral prosthesis, this article will list a few of the basics for you to learn about. Are you ready to learn a little bit more? If so, then this article is just the thing for you. Read on to learn more about dental implants. 

What Are Dental Implants?

If you have a missing tooth, you will need to replace that part of your mouth with something. Why? Because if that space is left empty for too long, it can make your teeth move or it can even make part of your jawbone erode. Luckily, with an oral prosthesis, your dentist can prevent any of those things from happening. One popular dental prosthesis is dental implants. Dental implants are metal rods that are surgically implanted into your gums. Once your gums have healed over the dental rods (about two months later), your dentist will then place a dental crown over the top; the dental crown acts as your natural tooth, whereas the dental rod acts as your dental root. 

Why Dental Implants? 

Even though dental implants aren't permanent, they certainly are close to it. Unlike other types of dental prostheses like dentures or bridges that can be removed or don't last very long, dental implants can last several years if not longer. Additionally, another thing that patients tend to like about dental implants is that they look like your natural tooth. During the last step of the dental implant process, your dentist will match your dental crown to your surrounding teeth so that they blend in with your entire mouth. 

If you find out that you have to have a tooth pulled because of extreme decay or anything else, you may wonder exactly what you will do to restore your mouth and smile. Luckily, with dental implants, your dentist can restore your smile so that you can smile like normal once again. If you want to learn more about dental implants, schedule a consolation with your dentist. During your consultation, your dentist will take some X-rays of your mouth and do a brief evaluation to determine whether or not dental implants are the right thing for you. 

If you're ready to schedule your consultation for your dental implant services, call your dentist office today.