Dental Implants

stacks_image_7A6E3832-DAF3-4B1A-94CD-4EE6BBDB15DC

Dental implants are an ideal option for people in good general oral health who have lost a tooth or teeth to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other cause. Long-term studies continue to show improving success rates for implants.

Replacing a Missing Tooth

Natural tooth roots can be replaced with dental implants.
A natural tooth is anchored into the jawbone by its tooth root. Tooth roots attach firmly to the jawbone and keep your teeth stable when chewing solid foods.

Dental implants provide an alternative to fixed bridgework. Instead of cutting down the teeth on either side of the missing tooth, the practitioner inserts a dental post (dental implant) into the jawbone to replace your missing tooth root. This post becomes solidly fixed into your jaw (like a natural tooth root). Your prosthodontist then places a crown onto this artificial tooth root that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.

stacks_image_2922260B-A38B-4A9A-985A-BE6EB8D8A00D

Replacing Several Missing Teeth

Traditionally, several missing teeth would have been replaced with a removable partial or full denture.

Dental implants can now be used to anchor partial and full dentures. This prevents the slipping, irritation, and pain associated with “floating” partials and dentures. It also prevents the tedious removal of dentures for overnight soaking and cleaning.

stacks_image_2E9B75EA-5126-44A9-9A46-0830502FF7A6

Dentures can cause bone loss, due to lack of stimulation.

Dental implants also eliminate the need for dental adhesives. This allows you to enjoy eating the foods you previously avoided. With dental implants, your partials or dentures are firmly anchored to the jawbone, causing them to feel much more like natural teeth.

Natural tooth roots and dental implant posts are fixed firmly in your jawbone. When you chew, these tooth roots and posts stimulate the jawbone and prevent it from shrinking. You may have seen a person who looked prematurely old because their jawbone had shrunk after wearing floating dentures. Dental implants help preserve your jawbone and appearance.

The Success Rate of Dental Implants

After their healing period, the success rate of dental implants is between 94% and 98%. If you are a non-smoker with good oral hygiene, the percentage is closer to 98%.

Does the Procedure Hurt?

The discomfort involved with receiving a dental implant is similar to that of having a tooth removed. It is often done under local anesthesia or sedation and patients generally experience some discomfort after the procedure.

How Long Will Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants become fixed into the jawbone. Though the life span of a dental implant varies from patient to patient, many have lasted for over 30 years. With good oral hygiene and regular cleanings, dental implants can last a lifetime.

Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implant treatment begins with an evaluation by your dentist who will determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure.