When you’re missing teeth, it can limit your ability to eat the foods you love or smile with confidence. Dental implants are not just the foundation for replacement teeth like bridges or dentures – they’re the first step in regaining a functional, attractive smile. Dental implants are one of our primary procedures
Implant Dentistry Procedure
Dental implants act as metal anchors or substitutes for missing tooth structure.
First, the implants are placed within your jaw bone. If your jaw bone is too soft or not thick enough, your dentist may perform bone grafting before your dental implant surgery. Once your jaw bone is healed, your dentist places the metal post of the dental implant in your jaw bone, making an opening in your gum to expose the bone. A hole is drilled into the part of the bone where the metal post is placed. The post is implanted deep into the bone, since it serves as the tooth root and therefore needs to be strong. One the metal post is inserted, the area heals for three to six months as the implant gradually bonds with the jaw bone. During this time you can wear a temporary partial and will want to eat softer foods while the site heals.
When might you need a dental implant?
Dental implants are a versatile, long-term solution for a number of patients’ needs. You might consider discussing dental implants with your dentist if you fit any of the following categories:
- You have one or more missing teeth, whether that’s due to genetics, injury, or gum disease
- You have a bridge that needs to be replaced
- You are tired of traditional dentures (the dentures slip, click, or prevent you from eating the foods you enjoy)
- Your missing tooth or teeth cause bite problems or pain
When you’re missing teeth, it can limit your ability to eat the foods you love or smile with confidence. Dental implants are not just the foundation for replacement teeth like bridges or dentures – they’re the first step in regaining a functional, attractive smile. Dental implants are one of our primary procedures
Implant Dentistry Procedure
Dental implants act as metal anchors or substitutes for missing tooth structure.
First, the implants are placed within your jaw bone. If your jaw bone is too soft or not thick enough, your dentist may perform bone grafting before your dental implant surgery. Once your jaw bone is healed, your dentist places the metal post of the dental implant in your jaw bone, making an opening in your gum to expose the bone. A hole is drilled into the part of the bone where the metal post is placed. The post is implanted deep into the bone, since it serves as the tooth root and therefore needs to be strong. One the metal post is inserted, the area heals for three to six months as the implant gradually bonds with the jaw bone. During this time you can wear a temporary partial and will want to eat softer foods while the site heals.
When might you need a dental implant?
Dental implants are a versatile, long-term solution for a number of patients’ needs. You might consider discussing dental implants with your dentist if you fit any of the following categories:
- You have one or more missing teeth, whether that’s due to genetics, injury, or gum disease
- You have a bridge that needs to be replaced
- You are tired of traditional dentures (the dentures slip, click, or prevent you from eating the foods you enjoy)
- Your missing tooth or teeth cause bite problems or pain