For patients who are completely missing one or more of their teeth, dental implants can restore your smile and enhance your confidence. Implants are surgically placed underneath the gum line and into the bone of your jaw. In less than six months, the titanium implant fuses with the bone and creates a reliably secure anchor for restorations. The implant is designed to last a lifetime and with proper care, will never need to be repaired or replaced. It is important to give the implant adequate time to heal so that it can securely stay in place.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
A dental implant does not require compromising surrounding teeth just to fill in an area where a tooth is missing. While fixed dental bridges are still a great option for many patients, they require filing down and reshaping surrounding teeth. Partial dentures can help with replacing missing teeth, but they are removable and may not be for everyone. Dental implants are a lifelong restoration that helps to replace missing dentition without the need to touch other teeth.
Who is a Good Candidate for the Procedure?
Dental implants need to be surgically inserted beneath the gum line and into the bone. If you have poor bone density or have an auto immune disease that can affect your body’s ability to heal, implants may not be the best option for you. Before surgery, we will do an examination and take a series of x-rays to determine if implants are right for you. Most healthy adults who want implants can have them placed. With proper care, your implant will heal in less than six months.
How to Have an Implant Placed
To have an implant placed, you’ll first need to come in to have a consultation with our doctors. The procedure itself involves surgically placing a titanium implant underneath the gums and into the bone. Small holes present in the implant fuse with the bone over the course of several months. Once the implant has fully healed and is securely in place, we can fit you with a dental crown to restore fullness to your smile.
If you’re interested in learning more about dental implants or want to schedule an appointment to have one placed, we’re here to take your call and get you in for a consultation.