Dental Implants
Dental Implants
Missing teeth can cause problems for your dental health. In addition to making chewing difficult and causing patients to be self-conscious about their smiles, one or more missing teeth can cause other teeth to move, loosen, and eventually fall out. A dental implant is a permanent solution that looks and feels like the teeth you were born with. Dr. Tran uses the latest technology and materials to give you a completely natural-looking smile.
Dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone. They serve as anchors for the attachment of replacement teeth, crowns, and partial or full dentures. Unlike dentures, implants do not move so there is no problem with slippage. You can eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Most people find that dental implants are a comfortable and convenient way improve the appearance and functionality of their teeth.
Dental implants are not for everyone. Candidates for dental implants need to have healthy gums and bones to support the implant structure.
Reasons for dental implants:
- Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
- Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
- Restore a patient’s confident smile.
- Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.
- Restore or enhance facial tissues.
- Support a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable.
What does getting dental implants involve?
The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.
X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself onto the bone for up to six months. Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. With other implants the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time.
After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete. After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.
You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new implant.
