Dental Implants

Dental implants are replacement tooth roots that provide a strong foundation for fixed (permanent) or removable replacement teeth. Dental implants are surgically placed below the gums over a series of appointments, and fuse with the jawbone to provide a permanent base for fixed (permanent) or removable replacement teeth.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically inserted into the jaw to replace missing tooth roots and provide a reliable foundation for the replacement teeth. Once in place, the implants fuse with the surrounding bone and tissue to provide a stable base for customized crowns to be attached.

Dental implants are an excellent option for many people looking to restore their smiles for both functional and beauty purposes. Because the implants are actually incorporated into the jawbone, they offer the same stimulation and pressure that you would receive from healthy natural teeth. This promotes better oral health and greater overall comfort when biting and chewing food. Plus, they can look and feel like natural teeth, allowing you to smile confidently without people being able to detect a difference.

The implants themselves are very durable, but the crown that is secured to them might require some occasional adjustments to ensure it fits properly and comfortably in your mouth. But most patients enjoy the durability of the implants. With proper care and attention, your dental implants can last a lifetime!

What are dental implants for?

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that their teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants are tiny titanium posts which are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, dental implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing. Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life. 

Are dental implants safe?

Dental implants are safe, as long as they’re performed by a trained dentist.

The dental implant procedure isn’t painful, and the only thing a patient might feel is a slight vibration during the surgery, which is comparable to the sound of an electric toothbrush.

Compared to removable dentures, which can slip or fall out when speaking or eating, dental implants are permanently anchored into the jawbone and can’t come out unless a dentist extracts them. This eliminates the risk of teeth shifting or falling out, which can cause other teeth to shift out of place and eventually cause further tooth loss. In most patients, dental implant placement increases their chewing efficiency by 50% or more. This can also improve bone density in the jaw by preventing the bone from deteriorating over time.

For patients receiving bone grafting along with dental implants, the procedure is safe as long as the bone graft comes from the patient and is under the supervision and guidance of a qualified medical professional. In some cases, dentists can harvest bone from another area of the mouth to serve as the bone graft. In other cases, they may use a substitute material like cow bone, synthetic bone, human cadaver bone, or a combination of these substances. All of these materials are considered safe for use during oral surgeries.

If you’re considering getting dental implants, it’s important to make sure your dentist has the proper training and expertise to perform the procedure. Ask to see copies of their credentials and research their training background to ensure you’re receiving dental care from a doctor who’s well-versed in dentistry.

How long do they last?

Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance, but on average they last about 10-15 years. The longevity of dental implants depends on various factors such as the quality of the implant, the placement of the implant, the type of restoration (crown, bridge or denture), and the patient's oral hygiene. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are important to help maintain the longevity of dental implants.

How to keep dental implants clean?

Dental implant hygiene involves maintaining cleanliness and proper oral care to ensure the long-term success and health of dental implants. This includes brushing and flossing regularly, attending routine dental check-ups, and avoiding behaviors that can harm the implants, such as using tobacco products or biting on hard objects. A dental professional can provide personalized recommendations and instructions for maintaining good dental implant hygiene.