Implant Restoration Specialist

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are prosthetic teeth physically implanted into a patient’s jaw to replace missing teeth. They are a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances as they stimulate bone and tissue growth. Dental implants create artificial roots and teeth, usually out of titanium because of its unique biocompatibility, surgically placed into the upper or lower jawbone by a dentist or periodontist, a dentist who specializes in the gums and supporting bone.  The teeth attached to implants are made from resin or porcelain and tinted and shaped to match the surrounding teeth.

Why Would an Implant Be Needed?

Dental implants are made to be very strong, stable, and durable, lasting as long or longer than natural teeth. Over time, it is possible that an implant may need to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear. Some of the reasons a patient have a dental restoration done with implants include:

• Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space
• Support a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable
• Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth
• Restore chewing, speech, and digestion
• Restore a patient’s confident smile
• Restore or enhance facial tissues

What is the Dental Implant Process?

The process of getting implants requires two or three visits to the dentist over the course of several months. At the first visit, X-rays and impressions are taken of the jaw and teeth to evaluate the bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. The dentist will numb the area for the implant and then surgically place a post into the jawbone. The jaw will need time to heal and for the post integrate itself onto the bone. After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor.  This step could take a few months as several fittings may be necessary. After the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant they provide excellent stability and comfort to the patient, improving oral health as well as physical appearance.  The dentist will provide specific care instructions throughout and after the installation.  Good oral hygiene including brushing and flossing twice a day, eating a healthy and balanced diet, and regular dental visits will lengthen the life of the dental implant.