Dental Implants
Dental implants are a popular solution to the problem of missing teeth. Missing teeth can affect how you feel about your smile, the foods you eat and your oral health.
Unlike dentures or partials, you won’t experience problems with slipping or sliding during social situations or while eating. Conveniently, dental implants require the same care as your natural teeth – brushing, flossing and regular dental cleanings.
Unlike bridges, dental implants do not require alteration to your existing, healthy teeth. It is possible to support a dental bridge using a dental implant without altering your natural teeth, providing a more conservative approach to your treatment.
Do I Need Dental Implants?
Many patients believe missing teeth are mostly a cosmetic problem. This is a fair concern, as your smile is something you use every day. Dental implants offer a long-term solution to complete your smile. We spend time making sure your dental implant is highly aesthetic by matching it to your existing teeth.
Losing your natural tooth can also put your oral health at risk. Missing teeth may place additional stress on your remaining teeth and can lead to damage. When you are missing teeth, you may find it difficult or even painful to enjoy the fresh, healthy foods you need for proper nutrition.
When patients lose teeth, their bone may begin to deteriorate, causing their facial features to have a sunken appearance.
Dental implants help stop this process.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
While most healthy adults are eligible for dental implants, some health conditions can change the effectiveness of the implants.
A complete oral evaluation will help us determine if you have sufficient bone, if you are healthy enough for dental implant treatment and determine if this treatment will be possible for you.
How Are Dental Implants Placed?
Prior to beginning the actual implant process, we will perform a full examination, including x-rays. Because the implant is attached directly to your jawbone, we need to know the condition of your bone. If necessary, you could be a candidate for bone grafts, sinus lifts or other procedures to assist successful dental implant placement.
The titanium posts for your implants will then be placed. Once you have healed sufficiently, you may receive a temporary crown over the implant while we wait for your permanent crown to return from the dental lab. Once the permanent crown has returned from the dental lab, you will return to our clinic to have it placed. The fit and appearance will be checked, and your implant will be complete.
For more information about dental implants or to arrange an appointment, please call our practice.
