Modern day dental implant systems were introduced to the world in the early 80s and offer benefits to patients with differing oral health issues. Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to conventional removable partial or complete dentures. By mimicking the structure of natural teeth they provide excellent support and stability for various dental appliances and have relatively high success rates
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of medical-grade titanium which has been shown to be highly compatible with the body. They are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile! They come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Each different design has been created to ensure maximum benefit for as many patients as possible.
Dental implants are strong and durable and will last many years. On occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.
Reasons for dental implants:
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Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
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Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
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Restore a patient’s confident smile.
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Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.
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Restore or enhance facial tissues.
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Support a bridge or denture, making it more secure and comfortable.
What does getting dental implants involve?
The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months. The exact nature of the placement procedure will vary with the individual and type of implants.
Generally, dental implants restorations are completed in a minimum of four steps over several months mostly effected by healing time..
1) During the first stage, a plan will be constructed for the forthcoming procedures. To develop this plan, thorough examinations need to be performed, along with three-dimensional x-rays.and impressions (molds) of your jaw and teeth. This information will be used to determine bone quality and quantity, gum tissue thickness, and spacing available for your implant. These tools help determine the optimal position, size and shape of implant which will give you the most support and the greatest possible benefit.
2) During the second stage, the implant is placed under local anesthetic, a cap is placed on the top of the implant and the surgical site is sutured closed and allowed to heal allowing for bone integration for up to six months.. In some instances the implants can be placed directly through the gingival tissue, with no additional incisions.
3) Depending on the type of implant, a second rather minor 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 therefore placed at the same time. This is referred to as " one-stage or two-stage implant treatment".
4) The fourth stage occurs after several weeks of healing and is generally of a shorter duration, where impressions are made for the custom created dental crown or restoration. Because several fittings may be required, this step may take multiple visits spread out over 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. Good oral hygiene and eating habits, alongside regular dental visits, will aid in the life of your new implant.
Ask for care instructions when your treatment is completed. See after dental implant surgery. Remember: you cannot get dental decay around your implant restoration but you can get periodontal like disease which can lead to bone loss and put your implant at risk of failure.
If you have questions about dental implants or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact our office.