Dental Implant If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants can restore the function and aesthetics of your smile. Implants can also be used in the placement of dental bridges, forming the abutment teeth on which the crowns are placed. Implants are a restorative procedure that differ from bridges or crowns which only replace the visible tooth. A dental implant restores the root of the tooth. The implant stimulates and maintains the health of the jawbone. Without a tooth or root present, the supporting bone structures of the teeth begin to deteriorate. Speak to one of our team members at Town Center Dental to see if you are a good candidate for dental implants.Considerations for dental implant surgeryIn restorative dentistry, there are several procedures available for people who are looking to restore the aesthetics and function of their teeth, with each procedure widely varying in material types and procedural complexity. You may be considering how you can effectively restore your smile and quality of life with dental implants. Not everyone qualifies for dental implant surgery. Growing children may not be eligible for implants until their jawbones fully develop. People with chronic diseases like diabetes or leukemia may not be eligible candidates for dental implants because of the interference their condition may play in the healing process. Smoking can slow your body's ability to heal, lowering your chances of a successful dental implant. What to expect before dental implant surgeryDental implant surgery requires several appointments and can take six to nine months in total. You will need a consultation appointment, an appointment to install the implants, and another appointment to install the teeth. During your consultation appointment, the dentist will assess if you qualify and discuss a plan for surgery. They will begin by giving you a thorough dental examination, taking X-rays to assess your jawbone health, and inquire about your past medical history. Once they have affirmed that you are in good health and qualify, they will discuss with you a plan for the implant surgery. Dental implant surgery is typically performed by a team of oral surgeons or professionals in restorative dentistry. It is possible to have the implant and crown installed on the same day, but in most cases, the surgery will take multiple appointments that are several months apart. Procedure during dental implant surgeryIn the first phase of surgery, your mouth will be heavily numbed with a local anesthetic, or you will be given IV sedation so that you feel no pain or discomfort. An incision is made in your gums to place the root implant into your jawbone. The implant is installed, and the gum is then sealed over the implant. The implant is made of titanium, a biocompatible material that is shaped to seal to bone. Once the first phase is complete you will recover at home for a few months. This phase is called osseointegration, where the bone will grow into the titanium, securing it in place for the crown to be placed. For some, this process takes longer and can take up to several months. When you are fully healed from the first process, you will return to the office for the second phase. In the second phase, anchoring points called abutments are placed over the implant. They will hold the new tooth in place. An impression is then made of your teeth to form the crown. Once the dental lab is finished making your crown, it is placed over the abutment, completing the implant. If you are interested in dental implants, schedule an appointment at Town Center Dental. You can consult our team to see if dental implants are right for you. Reach out to us at 636-273-5866 to schedule an appointment, or for more information. |
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