Questions About Dental Implants? Start Here.

The American Academy of Implant Dentistry has designated August as Dental Implant Month to inform the public about the benefits of dental implants to replace missing teeth. If you’re like many people, you may be wondering what are dental implants? How do they work? Am I a candidate? Well here’s what you need to know about dental implants:

What Is a Dental Implant? A dental implant is a small metal post that fits precisely into the socket left by a missing tooth. Bone tissue naturally fuses with the biocompatible titanium to create a solid foundation – a replacement tooth root. Implants can support a single tooth, act as the foundation for bridgework, or support dentures. There are typically 3 structural components to a complete dental implant fixture:

1. The Implant – The post that is surgically implanted in either your upper or lower jaw. This serves as the replacement tooth root.
2. The Abutment – A small connector that can be cemented or screwed into the implant. This is what connects the final restoration to the implant.
3. The Restoration – This is what is visible in your mouth. The restoration is the crown, bridge or dentures that are custom made to match your existing teeth.

Can I Get Dental Implants? Almost anyone is a candidate for dental implant surgery. Some factors your dental surgeon will consider are your general health, dental health, and any medications you may be taking. Although age is not generally a deterrent, younger patients will need to wait until their jaw is finished growing before getting implant treatment.

How Are Implants Placed? Placing a dental implant is a surgical procedure. In most cases, an incision is required, and the bone is prepared at the implant site. The titanium post is then inserted into the prepared site, and the gum tissue is sutured closed. If your implant is in a visible area of the mouth, you may get a temporary tooth or appliance to wear until healing is complete and you are ready for the next phase of treatment.

I Think I Need an Implant-Now What? After your initial consultation, you will need to have some diagnostic work done to determine a treatment plan tailored to your needs, dental health and desired outcome. These may include a CT Scan, panoramic x-ray and cast models of your teeth. Your dental surgeon will review the diagnostics, and present your treatment plan to you. Factors such as length and phases of treatment, expected time to heal and cost will be included in your plan, as well as any necessary preliminary or preparatory treatment you may need.

For many people, dental implants are the best way to replace missing teeth and restore their smile. Advances in dental technology have enabled dental surgeons to provide state of the art care to patients while reducing the discomfort and healing time associated with dental implant surgery. If you have missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures, dental implant treatment may be for you.

At Englewood Dental, Dr. John Minichetti and his team have been placing and restoring implants for over 25 years. Combining experience with cutting edge technology, Dr. Minichetti is able to deliver a superior level of care to his patients. Highly trained staff and state of the art surgical facilities enable Dr. Minichetti and his team of implant dentistry experts to provide their patients with a lifetime of smiles. Request your Free consultation today!

Are you interested in implant dentistry but uncomfortable with surgery? Sedation dentistry may be the right option for you. Learn more here.

Resources:
AAID Patient Resources
Dental Implants on WebMD
dentalimplants.com