Dental Implants

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are tiny titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone in areas where teeth are missing. These metal anchors essentially act as tooth root substitutes. After the healing period, small abutments are then attached to the implant which protrude through the gums and provide stable anchorage for attachment of artificial replacement teeth.

Why Consider Dental Implants?

When you lose a tooth, whether it’s a new situation or something you have lived with for years, chances are you have never become fully accustomed to losing such a vital part of yourself. Once you learn about dental implants, you finally realize there is a way to improve your life by eliminating the frustration and embarrassment of tooth loss. Dental implants can be your doorway to renewed self-confidence and peace of mind.

Why Select Dental Implants Over More Traditional Types Of Restorations?

• A long-term solution. If properly placed and cared for, dental implants may last a lifetime. More traditional restorations such as tooth-supported bridges may last for as little as 5-10 years only!
• Similar to natural teeth. Dental implants fit seamlessly into the mouth and function much like natural teeth. They are stable and secure, allowing you to speak fluidly, smile brightly, and eat your favorite foods with confidence. In contrast to traditional removable appliances, implants will not fall out or loosen during your everyday activities. In addition, implant maintenance is much simpler than more traditional restorations and usually does not require any special care. Simply brush, floss, and maintain regular professional dental care just like the rest of your teeth!
• Retains natural facial aesthetics. Dental implants help to maintain the tooth-bearing bone of the jaws and prevent progressive deterioration as a result of tooth loss. This helps to strengthen the bone, maintain facial contours, and avoid a sagging appearance of the overlying face and lips.
• Protects healthy neighboring teeth. Dental implants prevent neighboring teeth from movement that commonly occurs when a tooth is lost without being replaced. In addition, implants do not require the alteration or support of the neighboring teeth for placement. This protects the neighboring teeth from bearing unnecessary loads and undergoing unnecessary harm.

Dental Implant Placement

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two steps: 1) placement of the dental implant, and 2) placement of the replacement tooth. Following the first step (implant placement), the implant is left to heal undisturbed beneath the gums for a period of four to six months. You should be able to wear temporary dentures, flippers, or other removable appliances to fill the missing tooth space during the healing period if desired. Once healed, the implant may be restored with a replacement tooth (“prosthesis”) by your dentist.

Are You A Candidate For Dental Implants?

Most people are candidates for dental implants. If you are considering implants, contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our surgeons. They will review your medical and dental history and perform a thorough evaluation of your teeth and gums to determine if implants are right for you.