Dental implants are a permanent and appealing solution to replace missing or extracted teeth. They are better than other alternatives like bridges because no additional teeth need to be altered to place the new tooth.
The entire implant process is performed over the course of a few months. The first part of the process is to install the implant itself, where a screw is placed into the jaw bone. An incision is made in the gum so that the implant can be inserted. Multiple implants can be placed at once if necessary. After the implants are placed the gums are sutured.
The implant must be allowed about 3-6 months to heal, and during this time the jaw bone will form around the implant in a process called osseointegration. During this healing time you can have temporary crowns installed so that you can eat and speak normally and maintain a proper aesthetic appearance for your smile.
After the implant has healed it is time to place an abutment on the implant. The abutment serves as the base for your new tooth. One this is placed an impression of the abutment is taken and is used to create your permanent restoration. Some offices have an onsite lab to create the crown, but others will have to send it to an outside lab. Once the restoration is completed you can return to the office to attach the restoration permanently. Your smile will look just like it used to, and after a short period of getting used to the implant it will feel just like one of your own teeth.
Are Implants Right for You?
Bridges and dentures are not the only options when replacing missing teeth. Dental Implants offer the look and feel of natural teeth. Implants offer more stability because they fuse to your bone. Additionally, they integrate into your jaw allowing replacement teeth to feel more natural, secure and comfortable.
So who qualifies? Dental implants are an ideal option for all people in good general oral health who have lost one or more teeth due to any range of tragedy from periodontal disease to injury.
The First Step
The first step is to make an appointment for a routine evaluation. Our dentists will look at the health of your gums and periodontal situation and see if your gums will hold the implant.
Summary
Implants are the latest dental technology for replacing the roots or lost teeth. They offer stability, comfort and a sense of freedom bridges and dnetures could never achieve.
