People have been trying to figure out how to replace missing teeth since ancient times when the only viable choices were stones and shells. Today, titanium dental implants outfitted with porcelain crowns are considered the most reliable solution. You may wonder why dental implants are needed and why they are important. Below are a few answers to that question that may prompt you to discuss dental implants at your next appointment with your Lawrenceville, GA dentists at the Center for Cosmetic and Sedation Dentistry.

The Dental Implantation Procedure
The process of getting dental implants requires a minimum of two appointments. At the first appointment, the implant is surgically inserted below the gum line. At the final appointment, an abutment post and permanent porcelain crown are placed. The entire process usually takes between two to nine months depending on how long it takes your bone tissue to fully heal around the implant.

Why Are Dental Implants Important?
Your teeth play an important role in your daily life, and not just for aesthetic reasons. For one, they make chewing your food easier. They also aid in the normal pronunciation of words. Your teeth also keep your jaw bone strong and viable. When even one tooth is missing, the mouth is more susceptible to oral health problems like gum disease. A dental implant by your Lawrenceville dentist will permanently restore oral function and also help give you back confidence in your smile.

A Lifelong Smile Improvement
Patients are often relieved to learn that their dental implants will last as long as the rest of their teeth. Once an implant is installed it becomes indistinguishable from the rest of your teeth. You can expect a dental implant to stay in place for at least 20 years if you properly care for it—that means daily brushing and flossing and regular visits to the dentist for checkups.

Find Out If You're a Candidate
Your dentist has to do an X-ray of your mouth to decide if dental implants are the right choice for your case. Additional treatments, like bone grafting, may be necessary. Find out for sure by calling the Center for Cosmetic and Sedation Dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA today at (770) 995-1957.