Dental Implants offer a natural looking, comfortable, permanent solution to replacing missing teeth. Implants can be utilized to replace a single missing tooth, support a bridge or secure a denture.

 

Think of dental implants as metal anchors, usually made of titanium, that are surgically placed into the jawbone to hold permanent replacement teeth or dentures. Through a process called "osteointegration", the jawbone actually attaches itself to the implant over time, providing tremendous stability. A lifelike ceramic restoration is then placed over the implant in order to perform the same or better than a natural tooth. Implants provide a highly stable support system for the replacement tooth or denture.

 

Because dental implants function remarkably like natural teeth, most people who get them experience a renewed sense of self-confidence once they realize they can again chew, talk, laugh and smile with confidence.

 

To determine the appropriate site for the implant replacement, dentists typically take x-rays. Some may prescribe CT scans as well. Impressions are taken of the mouth and then used by the dental laboratory to create a customized restoration.

 

At the second surgical appointment, the dentist makes an incision to expose the bone at the implant site. The dentist then prepares the site to receive the implant. Once the implant is secured, the gum tissue is sutured back over the implant.

 

The implant is left undisturbed for three to six months to allow it to osteointegrate with the bone. If the implant is in a visible area of the mouth, the patient may choose to wear a temporary prosthesis during the healing period. Dentures may be relined with soft liners to allow patients to comfortably wear them during the healing process.

 

Once the implant has been completely integrated with the bone, a post is attached to the implant. The dentist then creates the permanent tooth replacement.