Dental Implants
Dental implants are an excellent choice for replacing missing teeth in many situations.
They are especially useful if there are no healthy adjacent teeth that can be used to anchor a bridge.
Implants offer a permanent, fixed option that allows for removable partial or complete dentures.
They also provide a base for individual crowns.
Dental implants provide strength and stability for whichever restorative procedure follows.
Using Dental Implants – The Why and When
Implants are often a desirable option to:
- Restore your smile
- Alleviate pain or problems associated with missing or drifting teeth
- Replacing missing teeth without using a bridge that requires abutment teeth
- Enhance your ability to chew and speak properly after teeth are removed
- Support your facial structure
- Anchor a bridge or dentures
What Are Dental Implants
As the name suggests, dental implants are metal (typically titanium) posts that your dentist implants into the jawbone.
They take the place of the root structure of missing teeth.
They also serve as a base to which dentures, bridges or individual replacement teeth can be attached.
Dental appliances attached to implants are very strong.
Dental Implants – Restorative Applications
Individual Tooth Replacement
To restore a single missing tooth, a crown attached to an implant is often the option of choice.
This provides a natural looking replacement that is permanent.
It immediately restores the functionality of the missing tooth.
The process is does not affect adjacent teeth or rely upon them for support.
Replacing Multiple Teeth
Dental implants provide the most stable option for replacing multiple teeth with a fixed bridge, especially at the back of the mouth.
A fixed bridge provides strength and functionality.
That functionality cannot be achieved with other restorative options.
This will enable you to eat whatever foods you like.
It will provide support to your facial structure and help prevent bone loss.
Full Arch Replacement
Dental implants coupled with a fixed bridge represent the most effective solution for someone who has had all of their teeth removed.
Once, there was no highly stable option in the absence of healthy anchor teeth for placing a bridge.
However, the implant procedure changed that.
It is possible now to replace the full jaw with a strong and natural looking solution for multiple missing teeth.
That will restore facial structure and functionality.
For information about implants used as anchors for dentures, visit our page about dentures and partial dentures, here.
The Dental Implant Process
Your dentist determines the exact process based upon the number of teeth involved and also the restorative options required. In any case, you will make multiple visits and have multiple procedures over a period of several months.
Once placed, adequate time for healing must be allowed.
Additionally, the implants become integrated into the bone.
After that occurs, the next procedure is performed.
At your initial visit, the staff will take X-rays and impressions of your teeth and jaws.
Then, your dentist will evaluate your gum tissue and bone structure.
She or he will also determine the spacing available for the restoration.
The next procedure will be to surgically place the implant into the bone.
Healing and bone integration occurs over time, and must occur before the next procedure.
Your dentist will place the posts that support individual replacement teeth during additional visits.
Time for healing is also necessary.
Once fully healed, your dentist will attach the replacement teeth to the posts.
That will restore the appearance and functionality of your teeth.
Although this is a lengthy and involved process, most patients report that it is a truly life-changing experience.
It greatly improves their quality of life and consequently, their self-confidence and self-esteem.
After The Implant Procedure
Your dentist will provide you with necessary instructions for proper care so that your implants will give you a lifetime of worry-free service.
Additional Services
Dentist Brandon MS provides a full range of services for your dental care needs.
Brushing & Flossing | Exams & Cleanings | Fluoride Treatments
X-Rays | Dental Sealants | Dental Treatment Plans
Fillings | Inlays & Onlays | Crowns | Implants
Whitening | Composite Fillings | Dental Bonding
Periodontal Services | Periodontal Treatment & Therapy
Oral Surgery | Root Canals | Dental Emergencies | Find A Dentist
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