What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a type of restoration that replaces a missing tooth within the mouth. Implants are often made out of surgical-grade titanium, making them a durable and solid part of your smile. The implant itself replaces both the root system and upper crown portion of a tooth that has either fallen out or been extracted. Implants are considered permanent, since they bond with your surrounding jawbone over the course of just a few months.
Why would Dental Implants be needed?
When you’re missing teeth, it can be difficult to feel confident in the way that you look. It might even be difficult to eat and chew because your natural teeth are no longer there to be useful. Implants are ideal for replacing these areas of missing dentition without having to compromise surrounding teeth. Implants work independently on their own and can last for decades without showing signs of wear.
Who is a candidate for Dental Implants?
In order to be considered a good candidate for dental implants, we will examine your teeth and take x-rays. The implant works best when there is enough solid, healthy bone in the area where the restoration is being placed. If you are missing bone, we may recommend that a bone grafting be done to build up the area where it is lacking. Most of our patients who want or need implants can safely come in for the procedure to be done.
What happens during the Dental Implant procedure?
The procedure begins with a local or general anesthetic that is used to numb the area and relax you during surgery. The surgery consists of making a small incision through the gums and then creating a cannel-like hole into the jawbone. The titanium implant is placed and given time to heal. Over the course of roughly six months, the implant will bond naturally with the surrounding jawbone. Once this occurs, we can make a crown, bridge or denture that is then placed over the freshly healed restoration to enhance your smile. While the implant itself should last for decades, the restoration placed on top of the implant will need to be replaced more frequently.
If you think you might benefit from dental implants, call us today to speak with one of our helpful and highly skilled team members.