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About:
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Dental implants offer a permanent and natural-looking alternative to traditional dentures and bridges. The implant is a titanium screw that is surgically inserted into the jawbone where the tooth roots used to be. Once in place, the implant encourages your body's natural process of fusing bone to it which creates a solid foundation for your tooth restoration. Most implants are made of titanium, a biocompatible and safe material that is known for promoting osseointegration.
Dental implants are a good option for most people who have missing teeth or deteriorating tooth restorations. The general oral health of the patient is a major factor in determining whether they are eligible for a dental implant. Infections can interfere with healing and damage facial bones or teeth. Smoking can also cause complications after surgery and slow down the healing process.
Prior to surgery, it is important that patients follow a strict oral hygiene plan with frequent brushing and flossing and avoid chewing hard foods. It is also recommended that patients visit their dentist every six months for an oral evaluation to make sure their mouth and gums are healthy. Patients who do not maintain an oral hygiene routine are more likely to have long-term issues with their implant, such as gum disease. This can cause the implant failure and require surgery to remove.
The treatment planning phase for dental implants includes a series of X-rays to evaluate the amount of bone in the upper and lower jaws and determine if there is enough to support an implant. If not, a bone graft may be necessary. There are many different types of bone-graft materials, including bone taken from another part of your body or synthetic bone substitutes that can stimulate new growth. The type of graft you choose will depend on the needs that you have and will be discussed during your consultation.
If you have enough bone for an implant, your next step is to book a surgery. During the procedure, your oral surgeon makes a cut in your gum to expose the bone. The metal implant post is then placed in the holes drilled into the bones. The implant abutment is then attached to the post and the restoration (mostly a crown) is placed over it.
Once the restoration is placed, the implant abutment will not be visible. If you prefer that it be less noticeable, you can ask us to have the abutment shaped so that it will sit lower in your gum line.
Dental implants are an excellent option to replace a single or multiple missing teeth due to their durability and lifelike appearance. An implant can last a lifetime with proper maintenance. Please contact our office if you'd like to know more about this treatment. Our team will be happy assist you!
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