Having missing teeth is not as uncommon as you may think. Almost half of all adults are missing teeth. Teeth can be lost due to major damage or decay; sometimes, however, the permanent teeth just don’t come in. This leaves many people looking for a solution to fill in these gaps. For a stable, permanent solution, dental implants can restore a full smile to our patients at South Meadows Dental & Orthodontics. Dental implants are a great option to replace any missing teeth.
WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS?
One of the many restorative treatments offered at South Meadows Dental & Orthodontics is dental implants. Implants are used to replace a missing tooth (much like a bridge) but implants are a permanent solution that acts like a natural tooth. Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically inserted into the jawbone with a Pontic (fake tooth) attached to the end of it. These Pontics are crowns that are custom-designed to blend in with the rest of your teeth through a shaping and color-matching process. This will help to mimic natural tooth-colored contours. Those with implants treat them just like normal teeth, brushing and flossing them as normal, and eating regular foods. Dental implants are beneficial because preparation of adjacent abutment teeth is not necessary to replace the missing tooth or teeth.
TYPES OF DENTAL IMPLANTS
There is one main type of implant used that is considered safe by the American Dental Association. These are Endosteal implants. These implants are surgically implanted into the jawbone, replacing the missing tooth root. After the gum tissue has healed, a second procedure is performed to connect a post to the implant. Then an artificial tooth is attached to the post. This can be done individually or with a bridge.
HOW ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS PLACED?
Getting dental implants involves multiple visits to the dentist. The initial visit is an evaluation to ensure there is enough quality bone to support the implant. Often, a 3D cone-beam image is made which allows your dentist to make sure bone quality is good and there are no anatomical structures in the way of the implant. If the site is adequate, there are several steps followed to ensure a successful restoration. First, the site for the implants has to be prepared. During a surgical procedure, the bone structure under the gum tissue will be exposed and prepared so the implant can be placed there. The implant is placed, and the gum tissue is closed using sutures. After this surgery, your gums and bone will need time to heal. The healing process takes anywhere from three to six months. This is so that the implant can become a part of the jaw. During this time, many patients may use temporary crowns or transitional partial dentures to fill in the gap. Once the tissue has healed, the crown will be attached. The crown is custom-made through a dental lab to be the exact shape and color of your natural tooth so that it blends in. This process is all done over a variety of appointments but, in the end, you will have a permanent solution that looks natural and beautiful.
Dental implants are very long-lasting if they are taken care of. Using proper brushing and flossing methods (and getting regular dental checkups) is the best way to make sure that your implants stay stable.
WHY DO I NEED DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Our patients at South Meadows Dental & Orthodontics get dental implants for various reasons. These include:
- Replace a missing tooth
- Maintain bone health
- Natural-looking restoration
- Long-lasting restoration
- Achieve a full smile
Dental implants aren’t just a great cosmetic option— they are a great restorative method that keeps your jaw and tooth structure stable. Implants act like a real tooth so your teeth and bones won’t shift with the implant in place. Also, since it acts and looks like a real tooth, you can have a full smile again.
ARE YOU A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Implants are desirable for many patients because they are durable, permanent, and more comfortable than other restoration methods. Implants are a great option for many people, but you’ll need to have healthy gums and good bone structure. Patients who smoke may not be able to get dental implants since smoking can cause issues with the implant. By talking with your dentist here at South Meadows Dental & Orthodontics, we can work together to see if dental implants are the right option for you.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
To discuss your permanent solutions for missing teeth, come into South Meadows Dental & Orthodontics for a consultation. Dental implants are a great option for many of our patients, and they offer a permanent solution to missing teeth. If you would like to schedule an appointment, call our office or fill out an online form.