Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. Implants can provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.
Dental implants are artificial roots made of titanium that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone. 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:
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Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
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Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
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Restore a patient’s confident smile.
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Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.
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Restore or enhance facial tissues.
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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.
Exam/X-rays and impressions if necessary 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 and allowed to heal and integrate itself for up to six months. Sometimes implants will only take six to eight weeks to heal.
After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor by your restorative dentist. This step may take 2 to 8 weeks depending on number of visits required by the general dentist. The final restoration on the implant will provide stability, comfort and esthetics for the patient.
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.