Dental Implants
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 mimic the size and shape of natural teeth and are made of titanium. Orthopedic surgeons use titanium components for their work and achieve highly similar levels of success. The implants are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist. 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 or CT Scans 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.
After a suitable healing period, the implant supported restoration is custom made and securely attached to the implant, providing excellent esthetics, 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.