Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.
Dental implants are artificial roots (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by an Oral Surgeon or Periodontist - a specialist of the gums and supporting bone. A post is inserted into the implant and a crown is placed over the post. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!
Dental implants are strong and durable and will last many years.
Reasons for dental implants:
Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
Restore a patient’s confident smile.
Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.
Restore or enhance facial tissues.
Support a bridge or denture, making it more secure and comfortable.
What does getting dental implants involve?
The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.
X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone, covered with gums and allowed to heal and integrate itself for up to six months. After six months the implant is exposed and a healing cap is placed on the implant. The implant is now ready to be restored by the general dentist with a post and crown which normally takes two appointments.
Depending on the bone site, sometimes an implant may have a temporary crown placed on it immediately. In either case the permanent crown and post will not be placed till the implant is fully integrated in the bone (about four to six months) The final implant and post and crown will provide excellent stability and comfort to the patient.
It is very important to keep implants very clean or they can be rejected. It is also very important for the implants to be checked regularly a dentist.
You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene and eating habits, alongside regular dental visits, will aid in the life of your new implant.
If you have questions about dental implants or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact our office.