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About Dental Implants
With nearly 40 million Americans having lost some or all of their teeth, dental implants are a ideal option for replacing those lost teeth. Implants will help you regain confidence in your smile and they feels and function like like natural teeth. They are an alternative to bridges, partials or dentures. A dental implant is a small man-made titanium fixture that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. The implant is placed in the bone of the upper or lower jaw and allowed to bond with the bone and serve as an anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used to replace a single lost tooth or many missing teeth. Implant supported replacement teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth. Dental implants are a proven restorative option with a long clinical history. Dental implants preserve the integrity of the facial structure and reduce the inconvenience associated with tooth loss.
Reasons for Implants
- No worrying about dentures falling out - a stable foundation. No loose dentures. No gooey denture adhesives.
- Improves speech and biting pressure. Eliminates tooth shifting.
- Insufficient teeth amount or jaw structure for other type of replacements.
- Restores proper chewing ability which leads to a better diet and improved overall health.
- They look and feel like your natural teeth.
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Increase your self-confidence when talking and smiling.
Ideal candidate for dental implants
Anyone who is missing one or more of their teeth due to injury, disease, or decay may be a candidate for dental implants. If one or a few teeth are missing, dental implants in conjunction with a crown or bridge can replace those teeth without loosing more bone. If all or most of your teeth are missing, the dental implants may be placed to replace a loose fitting full or partial denture. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implants along with healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease. Occasionally, older patients express concern that their age may prevent them from enjoying the benefits that dental implants offer. However, health is more of a determining factor than age. If you're healthy enough to have a tooth extracted, you're probably healthy enough to receive dental implants. Certain chronic diseases may contraindicate implant treatment. Your dentist will determine if you are a candidate for dental implants after a careful evaluation of your dental and medical health history
Risks Associated with Implants
Complications are rare with implant procedures. When infections or
other complications occur, medication or surgical intervention may be
used to treat it. Oral surgery may incur damaging of the nerve that
control sensation. Such complication is rare and may be temporary
or permanent. In addition, there is risk of bleeding, swelling,
bruising, infections, discomfort, cosmetic problems and damage to
other natural teeth. Ask us to provide more information about the
risks involved with this procedure.
Implants placement does require several steps over a
period of time ranging from 3 months to over 1 year depending on your
specific needs. Here are the steps followed for implant therapy:
1. The first step is the placement of the
titanium implant. The implant will remain covered underneath the gum
for approximately 3-6 months or more. During this time, the implant should
fuse to the bone.
2. The second step of the procedure involves uncovering the implant
and attaching a post. This completes the foundation of which your new
tooth will be placed. 3. The final step is the placement of your new tooth by your dentist.
With techniques that ensure optimal size, shape, color and fit, this
replacement tooth should blend with your remaining teeth. Your implants will require some special care when brushing and flossing
(use of floss threader) to help
you keep the plaque off and prevent lost of implants. Procedure
Caring for your Implants
