Dental implants involve precisely placing small titanium posts directly into the jawbone in areas where teeth are absent. Functioning as substitutes for natural roots, these implants provide a robust foundation for replacement teeth. The goal is to replicate the appearance of natural teeth and ensure that they function and feel like them. This transformative procedure allows patients to enjoy the freedom of eating a wide variety of foods while confidently showcasing a full smile, complete with teeth that exhibit a new, natural look and facial contours that remain preserved.
Through bonding, your jawbone integrates with the titanium, establishing a secure base for artificial teeth. Subsequently, the posts protruding through the gums are securely attached to the implant, effectively anchoring the replacement teeth. Beyond restoring oral function and aesthetics, dental implants play a crucial role in maintaining facial structure and preventing jawbone deterioration associated with missing teeth.
Opting for implants requires undergoing a thorough dental and radiographic examination. During consultation appointments, you’ll have the opportunity to talk about any concerns or specific considerations you may have.
Recognizing that this process might be intimidating, we are fully prepared to address all your questions and concerns. Also, we will talk about fees and insurance options at this stage. Given the variability in dental plans, understanding your coverage for implants is crucial, as some plans may need to cover the procedure. Don’t worry; with our extensive experience in this area, we are committed to helping you through the entire experience.
For the majority of patients, the placement of dental implants typically involves two distinct surgical procedures. We identify and position the implants within your jawbone during the initial procedure. Healing times vary, influenced by factors such as bone density, and some patients may have their implants immediately restored.
Following the first surgery, the dental implants remain beneath the gum surface, gradually bonding with the jawbone over three to six months. Patients can use temporary dentures and follow a soft diet during this phase. This interim period allows the restorative dentist to meticulously plan and design the final bridgework or denture, optimizing both the teeth’ aesthetic appearance and functional aspects.
The second phase commences once the implant has thoroughly bonded with the jawbone. The implants are exposed, and a small healing collar is attached. Two weeks later, a general dentist begins crafting new teeth by taking a dental impression. At this stage, the posts or attachments are connected to the implants. Subsequently, replacement teeth are crafted over the top of these posts. On average, the entire procedure spans six to eight months. Remarkably, most patients experience minimal disruption to their daily lives throughout this comprehensive process.
A solitary crown serves as a replacement for a single missing tooth, with each replacement tooth affixed to its corresponding implant. This implies that an implant is necessary for each prosthesis. In the case of a partial prosthesis, commonly referred to as a fixed bridge, two to three implants may suffice to replace two or more adjacent teeth. For a complete prosthesis or fixed bridge addressing all upper or lower jaw teeth, the number of required implants hinges on the preferred type of total prosthesis—fixed or removable.
The choice between a fixed or removable total prosthesis dictates the number of implants needed. A removable prosthesis or overdenture can be secured to a designated bar or utilize ball-in-socket attachments. While a fixed prosthesis is permanent, only a dental professional can remove it.
