Dental Implants
Dental implants are artificial teeth and roots that are made of titanium and placed surgically by a Dentist or periodontist. (a gum and bone specialist) They are commonly used to replace missing teeth and as an alternative to having removable dentures. Dental implants are very natural looking and will help to restore or enhance your smile. Due to their extremely durable material, dental implants are built to last many years, but may occasionally need to be re-tightened due to normal wear and tear on the teeth.
Why Do I Need Dental Implants?
There are several reason why dental implants would be the right form of restorative dentistry for you. Some of these are:
- Restoring or Enhancing Facial Tissue
- Supporting a Bridge or Denture
- Replacing One or Several Missing Teeth
- Resolving Joint Pain or Bite Problems Caused by Missing Teeth.
How Do You Do It?
Dental Implants require several visits over the course of several months.
We will take several X-rays and molds of your jaw and teeth. After your Dentist or Dental Hygienist has determined correct spacing, and bone and gum tissue they will numb the area, and surgically place the implant. We then allow up to 6 months to allow the area to heal and the implant to integrate itself to your bone. There may be a second surgery required, depending on the type of implant you are receiving. In this surgery your Dentist or Dental Hygienist will place a post that will hold the artificial tooth or teeth in place.
We then allow several weeks of healing. Once you are healed, artificial teeth are made and fitted to the posts. This could take one to two months to complete because of the amount of fittings required. Another healing period ensues after this and then we will attach the artificial teeth to the implant.Your Dentist or Dental Hygienist will let you know your post-care instructions after your treatment is finished. Good dental habits, eating healthy and regular visits will extend the life of your dental implants.