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How can I replace
my missing teeth?
If you’re seeking out a low-maintenance dental solution for missing teeth, dental implants are a great option! Dental implants are able to enhance both your appearance and the function of your smile. They are crafted out of durable materials that can last a lifetime with the proper care and maintenance. They seamlessly blend in with the rest of your smile because we custom-fit them just for you!
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Dental Implant Options
Single Tooth Implants
Single-tooth implants are the most common type of dental implant. They have two primary parts, the implant that attaches to the bone, and the dental crown, which affixes over the titanium post. The implant is a titanium “post” shaped similar to a screw. The dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that attaches to the implant post to complete the final restoration.
Single-tooth implants are embedded directly into the jaw, acting as the tooth’s root. When the site heals, the crown will be attached over the post via an “abutment.” Crowns are highly durable and look like natural teeth. Due to their stability, crowns can last for decades, while implants can last a lifetime.
Full-Arch Implants
Many patients opt for full-arch implants if they are missing the majority, or all, of their teeth. When compared to dentures, full-arch implants won’t slide around in the mouth, which is a huge factor when patients consider them both.
Full-arch implants look and feel more natural than their traditional counterparts. This is because dental implants serve as natural roots to support fixed dental bridges or a set of implant-supported overdentures. They will keep the natural movement of your mouth, not shifting when you eat or speak.
Mini Implants
Mini implants are similar to regular dental implants except they are half the size, making them a minimally invasive alternative to regular dentures. Even though they can be utilized to restore teeth, they are often used as anchors to set implant-supported dentures.
The process for mini-implant placement is not as invasive as traditional implants. Because they are so small, the implant is placed over the gum instead of under. This makes the procedure quick and easy, it’s usually performed in just one visit!
Implant-Retained Dentures
Implant-retained dentures are a great solution for those looking for a permanent replacement for a full set of teeth. They are one of the most secure options available as they are attached to the jaw. This means they won’t be sliding around your mouth, so brushing, eating, and performing regular functions won’t be any different than natural teeth.
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How it Works
The Dental Implant Process
During the initial consultation, we will take a thorough exam of your mouth. This includes taking x-rays so that your doctor can assess your oral health and jaw bone density. To be a good candidate for dental implants, good oral health is important.
After your consultation, we will provide a detailed, personalized treatment plan and schedule your appointment for oral surgery. Before the procedure, your dentist will create a small incision in the gum line. This incision is where your dentist will carefully place the implant into your jawbone. The implant, a screw-shaped titanium post, will bond with your natural bone. Then your incision will be cleaned and disinfected so the healing process can safely begin.
Your gums will begin healing immediately after the implants have been placed. It takes about 2 weeks or less to heal after the procedure. However, for the implant to permanently bond with the jaw, a process called “osseointegration,” it will take between 3 to 6 months.
When the bonding process is complete and we receive your completed dental prosthetic, you’ll return for your final visit. Your dentist will then affix the restoration to your implant and secure it with an adhesive (usually dental cement). This will permanently secure the restoration to your dental implant. After this, you’ll walk out of our practice with a smile that you are satisfied with!
The Implant & Post
How are dental implants made?
The implant and the titanium “post” are the two main parts of your dental implant. The titanium post is the implant that is placed into your jaw. It’s crafted out of titanium because this material has proven to be a sturdy foundation for your replacement teeth; these are pre-made to fit your mouth.
After your implant has been placed, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental lab to create a restoration that will mold seamlessly into your jaw. The restoration is generally made out of porcelain or composite material. The durability and realistic appearance of the crown will serve just as well as natural teeth.
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Commonly Asked Questions
How long do dental implants last?
If the implant component is placed properly and the wearer practices good dental hygiene, it will last a significant amount of time. It’s actually very common for patients to keep them for a lifetime.
The restoration, dental crowns or bridges, can last for decades! However, they may need to be replaced eventually due to normal wear and tear. This is to ensure that you continue to have healthy oral hygiene and a brilliant smile.
Will dental implants stop bone loss?
Dental implants are the only dental restoration that prevents bone loss. Bone loss occurs after losing a tooth. Because of this, your jaw is no longer stimulated by the natural habits of chewing and biting, causing your jawbone to weaken from lack of use.
This is solved with dental implants because they bond directly to the jaw, serving as a sturdy root. The pressure of chewing and biting is transferred to the jaw, once again providing that much-needed movement to keep your bone from losing density.
Can dental implants be done in one day?
In some cases, dental implants can be completed in one day. But typically, these restorations will be a temporary prosthetic to protect the implant site and keep your bite functional until the permanent restoration. The temporary restoration is implemented so that you are able to eat and speak while the implant is permanently healing and bonding to your jaw.
While the implant is healing, your dentist will schedule a series of follow-up visits. Your dentist will monitor the healing process which usually lasts about 3 to 6 months. During this time, your dentist will take impressions so that your personalized restorations can be created. These permanent restorations will be placed in your next procedure so that you can have the brilliant, enduring smile you want.
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