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 and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist or Periodontist - a specialist of the gums and supporting bone.  The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!

Dental implants are very strong, stable, and durable and will last many years, but on occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.

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 them 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.  In certain cases, CT imaging is necessary to determine bone height, jaw bone anatomy and spacing.  On the day of the implant surgery, the area will be made numb and the implant will be surgically placed into the bone by our periodontist. It is allowed to heal and integrate itself within the bone for approximately three months.

After the healing period,  one of our general dentists makes an impression of the implants in the jaw.  The artificial teeth (crowns) are made, along with special anchors known abutments, which screw directly into the implants.   The crowns are cemented in place over the abutments.  The result is long-lasting teeth that look and feel natural.  Most importantly, they are fixed in place! 

You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed.  Good oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new implant. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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