Dental Implants are artificial roots and teeth that are surgically placed into the upper and/or lower jaw bone. Implants provide a strong foundation for the replacement of missing teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. They are also a great way to provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures.
Reasons for dental implants:
Preserves facial structure; preventing bone deterioration that occurs with tooth loss.
Strengthens a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable.
Restores chewing and speech.
Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
Restores a confident smile!
The teeth attached to implants are natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile! Dental implants are very strong, stable, and durable. They last many years, but on occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.
What does getting dental implants involve?
The process of getting implants requires multiple 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 type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. With other implants the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time. After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete. After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.