Dental implants are the optimal solution for replacing missing teeth. They are small, titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. These implants provide a strong foundation for the attachment of replacement teeth, such as individual crowns, bridges, or even full dentures. Dental implant placement enables a person the ability to eat virtually anything and retain their natural facial contours.
Key Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental Implants Offer:
- Natural Appearance: Dental implants closely resemble natural teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing smile.
- Improved Chewing Ability: Dental implants allow for comfortable and efficient chewing, enabling you to enjoy a wide range of foods.
- Longevity: With proper care, dental implants can last for many years, making them a durable and long-lasting tooth replacement option.
- Preservation of Jawbone: Dental implants help preserve the jawbone’s structure and prevent bone loss, maintaining oral health.
- Convenience: Dental implants are a permanent solution that doesn’t require removal, adhesives, or special cleaning routines like removable dentures.
- Improved Oral Health: Unlike dental bridges, dental implants do not require modification of adjacent teeth, preserving the integrity of natural teeth.
- Enhanced Confidence: Restoring your smile with dental implants can boost self-confidence and self-esteem, allowing you to smile and speak with assurance.
Dental Implant Topics
How do Dental Implants Work?
Dental Implants look, feel and function like natural teeth. When you lose a tooth, you lose both the root and the crown.
- In replacing the tooth, we start by placing a small titanium implant into the jawbone which acts as the new root. We then allow some time for the jawbone surrounding the dental implant to heal.
- Next, an abutment (support post) is placed on top of the implant
- Then a new replacement crown (part that you eat with) is placed on top of the abutment.
Roll over the hot buttons on the image to get a better understanding of the anatomy of a dental implant.
Titanium Implant
Your oral surgeon places this piece into your jawbone. It acts as your new tooth root.Abutment
This is the support post, connecting the implant to the crown.Crown
Your dentist will create this crown, designed to match the rest of your teeth in color and size for the most natural appearance.
Why Choose to Replace Teeth with Dental Implants?
First and foremost, they restore your ability to chew and speak comfortably, just like natural teeth. They are designed to look, feel, and function like your own teeth, enhancing both your smile and your overall oral health.
Another significant benefit of dental implants is their ability to preserve the structure and integrity of your jawbone. When a tooth is lost, the underlying bone can start to deteriorate over time. By replacing the missing tooth root with a dental implant, it stimulates the surrounding bone, preventing further bone loss and maintaining facial harmony.
What Should I Expect During Dental Implant Procedure?
Initially, our skilled oral surgeon will conduct a comprehensive examination of your mouth, including digital imaging, to assess your suitability for dental implants. If you’re a good candidate, the procedure can typically be broken down into three main phases:
Placement of the implant: Under local anesthesia, the titanium implant is precisely positioned in the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure.
Osseointegration: Over the next few months, a process called osseointegration occurs. This is when the implant fuses with the jawbone, creating a solid and stable foundation. During this time, a temporary restoration may be placed to maintain aesthetics and function.
Restoration: Once the implant has integrated with the bone, an abutment is attached to the implant. This abutment serves as a connector between the implant and the replacement tooth. Then, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is securely attached to the abutment, completing your new smile.
How is the Recovery after Dental Implant Surgery?
Recovery from a dental implant procedure is typically smooth and well-tolerated. Any discomfort can be managed with prescribed pain medication. It is normal to experience some minor swelling and temporary dietary restrictions, such as sticking to soft foods for a few days. Our team will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions to ensure a successful recovery.
Choosing dental implants is an investment in your long-term oral health and quality of life. They provide a durable and natural-looking solution that can last a lifetime with proper care. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with personalized care, ensuring your comfort, and delivering exceptional results.