DENTAL IMPLANTS
If you have missing teeth or uncomfortable dentures, dental implants may be a great option for you. Dental implants replace missing teeth and provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. These permanent dental appliances replace the tooth as well as the tooth root and provide excellent support and stability.
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 Periodontist is 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 rare occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.
- 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, as an anchor to make them more secure and comfortable.
The process of getting implants generally 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 and allowed to heal and integrate itself onto the bone for up to six months.
- Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the "post" that will hold the artificial tooth in place. With other implants the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time.
- During the healing period, the artificial teeth are made at the lab and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete.
- After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.
- 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.
