Dental Implants 15649
Dental implants are an alternative to traditional bridges and dentures that offer a more permanent and natural looking solution. 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. Implants are most commonly made of titanium and are a safe, biocompatible material that is well-known for encouraging osseointegration.
Most people who are missing teeth or have failing tooth restorations can be candidates for dental implants. General oral health is one of the main criteria to qualify for an implant, as any infections could interfere with healing after surgery and potentially damage more teeth or facial bones. Smoking also slows the healing process and can lead to complications after surgery.
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 that do not maintain a proper oral hygiene regimen are more likely to experience long-term problems with their implant such as gum disease, which can cause the implant to fail and require surgery to remove it.
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 Odin House Dental Surgery synthetic bone substitutes that can stimulate new growth. The type of graft chosen will depend on your individual needs and will be discussed with you 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 will make a cut on your gum to expose your bone. Holes are then drilled into the bone where the implant metal post will be placed. The implant abutment is then attached to the post and the restoration (mostly a crown) is placed over it.
Once the restoration has been placed, the implant abutment won't 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.
Because of their durability and life-like appearance, dental implants are a great option for replacing a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. With proper maintenance, an implant will last a lifetime. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of this treatment, please contact our office today. Our team will be happy assist you!
