Dental Implants
Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth implanted into the jaw to replace missing teeth. Today’s dental implants are durable, and feel and function like natural teeth. They are crafted to shape and enhance your smile even more than the teeth they replace!
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist or Periodontist – a specialist of the gums and supporting bone.
The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!
Dental implants provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.
They 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.
What does getting dental implants involve?
The process of getting implants involves a number of visits over several months.
X-rays 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.
Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. With other implants the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time.
After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete.
After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent 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.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- replace a missing tooth without affecting adjacent teeth
- maintain proper alignment by preventing teeth from moving into the gap left by a missing tooth
- support proper biting, chewing and speech
- restore or enhance facial tissues
- restore confidence with a beautiful, healthy-looking smile
- support a bridge or denture for optimal comfort and function