Implants can provide exceptional aesthetic results and last for many decades. An implant can be used to replace a single missing tooth or to secure a bridge or denture for replacing multiple teeth.
Missing teeth are the main reason we recommend implants because missing teeth can cause the other teeth in your mouth to shift around. That movement can affect your bite, smile, and the health of your mouth. They also cause facial sagging and premature aging. Dental implants are a great solution because they last a very long time and integrate with your jawbone to stimulate growth in your natural bone to prevent the deterioration and regression of your jawline.
Implants are surgically placed in the jaw bone. Our titanium implants work well with bone and actually integrate with your bone over time to create a very strong bond. After placing the implant, your dentist will determine when your new crown, bridge, or denture can be placed. This can vary from immediate placement or a 3-4 month waiting period. For very visible parts of your smile, we may place a temporary cap while you are waiting.
Restoring a single missing tooth is an easy procedure after the implant is placed. We will take an impression, send it to the lab to create a crown, and then bond it in the place of your missing tooth. This requires no anesthesia and only 2 short visits.
There are 3 distinct advantages to an implant-supported crown over a conventional bridge. First, an implant is more conservative in that we don’t have to trim the adjacent teeth for the bridge. Second, placing an implant helps conserve the jaw bone in the area. Additionally, the average implant and crown last much longer than a bridge.
Replacing 2 or more teeth is also an easy procedure after your implant has been placed. The number of teeth missing determines how many implants are needed. They can replace from two to as many as all of your teeth. The high tech dental materials used for implants can create exceptional aesthetics and function the best dentistry has to offer.
Loose, bulky, or poor chewing functions are the top reasons we consider implant-supported dentures. An existing denture can be modified to fit any new implants once they are placed. Often, we’ll do this in one visit by adding a denture liner to capture the implant attachment. When a new denture is constructed, the implant will be attached during the appointments where we adjust the fit of your denture.
Care should be taken in considering the number of implants which is correct for you. Using two implants will help your denture stay in position. However, when you increase to four or more implants, your denture is better supported, provides better chewing ability, and is less bulky.
Chewing and eating on an implant-supported crown or bridge will be like your normal teeth. An adjustment period may occur but should only last a few weeks. Care should be taken to eat a softer diet for several days after an implant is placed. You should contact our office if problems persist.
Soreness after the placement of an implant is usually mild. Most patients report it to be easier than having a tooth pulled. You may rinse with warm salt water or take a mild anti-inflammatory such as Advil for relief.
Normal oral hygiene is recommended. A few additional aids may help such as floss threaders, water irrigation, Christmas tree cleaners, and gum stimulators may be helpful. An increase in dental hygiene cleanings may also be needed.
Implant Supported Denture
Implant Retained Denture
