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 (made of titanium) that are placed into the upper or lower jaw bone. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!
Reasons for dental implants:
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Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
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Prevent or resolve jaw joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into a missing tooth space.
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Restore a confident smile.
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Restore or enhance 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?
The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.
X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself with the bone for up to six months.
After this healing period, a connector is placed into the fixture which then supports the actual tooth crown. The result is a replacement tooth that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth. You can brush and floss it like a natural tooth and chew with it as if your tooth was never missing. Implants will never decay, and generally last a very long time - most often the rest of your life.
Implant Fixture Placed
Implant Crown Cemented In Place
The process is pain-free, although you always have the option of sedation dentistry if you choose. The most common response from patients is their surprise with how easy a process it is. Most take a single dose of Advil after treatment and require nothing more.
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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.