Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.
Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist or Periodontist - a specialist of the gums and supporting bone. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!
Dental implants are very strong, stable, and durable and will last many years, but 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 them more secure and comfortable.
What does getting dental implants involve?
Implants are highly predictable procedure witha succes rate of 97%!. For a simple implant case to replace a missing tooth usually only 3 appointments are needed.
The first appointment involves gathering the diagnostic infirmation and taking X-rays of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant.
The second appoitnemtnt is the surgical appointment. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself onto the bone for 10-12 weeks. Longer healing may be needed depending upon the case.
The third appointment is a post-operative visit to check the implant for integration. After this appointment, you are know ready to see your general dentist for the new tooth!
You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new implant.