A dental implant is a small titanium screw that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. Dental implants can be placed in either the upper or lower jaws. Due to the biocompatible properties of titanium, a dental implant fuses with the bone and becomes a good anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used in solutions for replacing single or multiple missing teeth.
Many people who consider implants have removable, conventional dentures for lower and upper jaws, or have removable bridges. These people experience a significant improvement in their ability to chew food comfortably after their dental implant treatment.
At the first appointment, we use an X-ray to determine if the jaw bone is adequate to hold the titanium posts.
Models of the mouth are then made using a soft, pliable plastic compound. These models show where the gaps are located and provide measurements for a replacement tooth or a bridge.
Treatment with dental implants requires meticulous planning for best results.
When the permanent crown is ready (1-2 weeks normally), the temporary crowns are replaced.
A surgical procedure is required (using local anesthetic and sedative) in which precision channels are created in the jawbone, often using a surgical guide. The implants are then fitted into the sites so that they are in contact with the bone. They generally require two to six months to fuse to the bone before they can have tooth restorations attached to them to complete the process.
Immediately – at the same time an implant is placed (or after a period of healing), an abutment is attached to the implant. This is a device that “abuts” or joins the implant to a tooth form called a crown, which replaces the tooth part you see in the mouth.
The custom crown is cemented or screwed onto the abutment to permanently keep it in place and should be indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
When the permanent crown is ready (1-2 weeks normally), the temporary crowns are replaced.
Dental implant-supported replacement teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth. This means that you can eat and drink whatever you choose. But most importantly, dental implants improve quality of life in a very concrete way. People who have felt embarrassed and worried because of their tooth problems are often overwhelmed by what new permanent teeth can do for their self-esteem.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our office if you are considering dental implants.
A wonderful experience from start to finish. I’m grateful to have found this dentist.
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A wonderful experience from start to finish. I’m grateful to have found this dentist.