DENTAL IMPLANTS

What is a dental implant and how does it work?

A dental implant is a small "anchor" made of titanium. It is inserted into the jawbone to take the place of your missing tooth root. After Osseointegration, or when the surrounding bone has attached to the implant, a replacement tooth is secured to the top of the implant. The new tooth looks, feels, and performs just like your natural teeth.  

Dental implants can be used in a variety of situations, whether you need to replace a single missing tooth or many teeth. They can even be used to replace a full denture. As anchor points, implants can also securely attach a partial denture or bridge.

Are you a candidate for dental implants?

If you're healthy enough to have a tooth extracted, you're probably healthy enough to have an implant - whether your missing teeth are the result of injury, disease, or decay. General good health and adequate bone in the jaw are the key requirements. Your doctor can tell you if implants are right for you.

What is involved in implant procedure?

The dental implant process involves several steps that take place over a time period that averages from four to nine months. The typical process will include:

Initial implant placement: This procedure is typically performed in your dentist’s office under either a local or a general anesthesia. Your doctor places the implant into your jaw. Over the next several months, bone will attach to the surface of the implant anchoring it into position. Depending on your particular case, an additional minor procedure creates an opening through which your artificial tooth will emerge.

Implant prosthetic attachment: During this phase, your dentist painlessly attaches a prosthetic "post" from to the implant. A simple impression will be taken and over the next few days, an artificial tooth will be created for a functional natural restoration.

Implants can improve your appearance, confidence and freedom

Since dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, they naturally enhance your appearance. More importantly, the securely attached implant gives you the confidence of eating what you like, speaking easily and clearly, and freedom from embarrassment. And, by following a regular routine of careful oral hygiene and regular checkups, your implants can last for many years.

To find out if implants are a solution for you, call us at (614) 443-3400 to evaluate you today.