Implants
What are Dental Implants
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.
The teeth (crown) attached to implants are natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile. Dental implant crowns are strong, stable, and durable and should last many years, but on occasion, the crown will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear. Dental implants themselves are also durable but may fail over time due to bone loss from occlusal forces, bacteria, medications, and/or systemic conditions.
Treatment
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 surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself onto the bone for up to six months. Depending on the location and patients desire, a second surgery may be required in order to shape the gingiva (gums) for the future tooth (crown). After several months of healing the artificial teeth are made and attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.
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.
Maintenance
Implants are like teeth as in they need brushed and cleaned daily with continued hygiene visits at the dental office to insure longevity of the implant. Bacteria can build on the surface of the implant causing inflammation and bone loss leading to implant failure.