If you are self-conscious because you have missing teeth, wear dentures that are uncomfortable or don't want to have healthy tooth structure removed to make a bridge, dental implants might be an option for you. Once they’re in place, implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, and they blend with the shape and color of your smile. Many patients find that a dental implant is secure, stable and an ideal replacement for their own tooth.
Why choose a dental implant
Dental implants are a popular, long-lasting, and secure way to replace missing teeth and are designed to blend in with your other teeth. They are an excellent long-term option for restoring your smile. Implants can also help to prevent bone loss and maintain the health and appearance of your jaws.
Implant placement
Before placing an implant, we will examine your mouth to determine the ideal location for the implant. Once the location is determined, the implant is surgically placed in your bone. Next, the bone around the implant heals in a process called osseointegration. Osseointegration means “combines with the bone” and takes time. Some patients might need to wait until the implant is completely integrated, up to several months, before a crwon can be attached to the implant.
Placement of abutment
When the implant has healed and bonded with the surrounding bone, we attach an abutment. This device provides a secure attachment for a dental crown, bridge, denture or other restoration.
Placement of crown or restoration
After attaching the abutment, we can create and place a dental crown or other restoration on the implant to restore your smile. For a single tooth implant, we will customize a new crown to be placed on the abutment. The size, shape, color and contour of the implant crown, will be designed to blend in with your other teeth. If your implant is replacing more than a single tooth, custom-made bridges will be made to fit your implants. Once the restoration is in place, you can treat it just as you would a normal tooth. You must brush and floss implants just like a normal tooth to keep them healthy.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I’m a candidate for dental implants?
Most patients can benefit from dental implants to restore lost teeth. To determine whether implants are the best solution for you, we will examine your mouth and jaws to insure that implants are right for you. In some cases, it might be necessary to strengthen the area with additional bone.
If you are in good general health this treatment may be an option for you. In fact, your health is more of a factor than your age. Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, may interfere with healing after surgery. Using tobacco can also slow healing.
Can I get an implant if I’m missing more than one tooth?
Yes. Solutions such as implant-supported bridges are a great way to replace multiple adjacent missing teeth. Single implants can be used to restore multiple teeth that are not adjacent to one another.
How long does implant treatment take?
Implants and implant crowns are usually placed in three or four appointments. The length of treatment depends on numerous factors, such as the number of implants needed, and how quickly your bone heals and bonds to the implant.
How do implants look and feel?
Once they are in place, implants look and feel like natural teeth. They are as strong as natural teeth so you will be able to chew food normally.
How do I take care of my implants?
Although implants don’t get cavities, it’s important to take care of them to prevent gum infections and other complications. Brush and floss around your implant just as you would your natural teeth and see us for regular checkups and cleanings to make sure your implant stays healthy.
