Cosmetic Dentistry- Dental Implants
Dental Implants
are great way to replace a missing
tooth, or to provide a permanent
alternative to having a partial or full
dentures. They provide a nice fit and
they provide nice security while in
place.
Dental Implants are merely fake teeth
that are implanted into the jaw (upper
or lower). Since the implant is
artificial it has roots that are
typically made of titanium. A General
Dentist or Periodontist (gum and
supporting bone specialist) will place
these implants surgically. It is usually
painless, and as always we will strive
to make each procedure painless for
you. The teeth that are attached to the
implants are very
natural looking, and they often restore
or enhance a patients smile!
Reasons for Dental
Implants:
- Resolve bite problems caused by teeth
shifting into missing tooth space
- Resolve any joint pain caused by teeth
shifting into missing tooth space
- Restore a patient's confidence and
smile
- Restore a patient's chewing, speech,
and digestion back to normal
- Restore or enhance facial tissues
where missing teeth were
- Make a partial/full denture or a
bridge more secure by anchoring to them
What does getting
Dental Implants involve?
The entire process of implants will
require visits spaced out over several
months.
To start off, a full set of X-rays are
taken along with impressions of both top
and bottom teeth. This is done to
determine correct spacing, bone and
tissue that is needed for an implant.
When the procedure occurs it will be
painless and we will make every effort
to ensure that
you
experience no pain. While the area
around the tooth is numb, an implant
will be placed in surgically into the
bone. Post surgery, the bone and implant
will allowed to heal for up to 7 months.
If all goes well, the implant and post
are ready to be attached and placed. A
follow up surgery may be needed
(depending type of implant) to place a
post (a post that will hold the
artificial tooth in place).
Several weeks later after healing has
occurred the teeth then are made and
fitted to the post portion of the
anchor. If this part goes smoothly then
it will only take a few appointments.
Sometimes several fittings may be
required. Another healing period follows
this step. Lastly the artificial teeth
are securely attached to the implant and
will provide excellent stability without
compromising comfort.
After the procedure you will be given
post procedural care instructions. As
with any examination or procedure good
oral hygiene practices, and regular
dental examination visits will be
encouraged to maintain the life of your
Implants and
your smile.