Dental Implants
What is single or multiple dental implants?
Single implants are designed to replace just one missing tooth at a time. The procedure helps to retain the natural beauty of your smile without the need for more complicated bridge work. Implants are built to last an entire lifetime, so you’ll never need to worry about replacing them years down the road. Multiple dental implants are more geared towards denture wearers. With the use of multiple implants, the denture is then snapped or clipped into place to keep it secure. For patients who constantly have a denture that’s slipping, implants keep it in place and prevent an embarrassing or annoying moment.
Why would you need to have a dental implant?
Dental implants are completely unlike any other alternative to replace a missing tooth. Unlike bridge work that involves drilling down surrounding teeth, the implant is securely inserted into the bone and acts like its own root system. You won’t need to wear a removable appliance and can benefit from a permanent, lasting smile. You may be told that you need an implant if you’re missing a tooth or if you wear ill-fitting dentures. Most people are good candidates for implant surgery, so it’s worth looking into this option for your own dental benefit.
What makes you an eligible candidate for an implant?
Implant surgery is suitable for most healthy adult patients. You will need to have a consult done with one of our doctors to take x-rays and determine if the procedure is suitable for you. Patients with poor bone density may not be a good fit for implants because they need strong, stable bone to bond correctly. If you have an auto immune disease or other disorder that prevents your body from healing on its own quickly and properly, this procedure may not be right for you. The only way to tell if implants will benefit you and be successful is with an exam and consult.
What can you expect when having dental implant surgery?
The surgery to place a dental implant is done quickly and easily in-office. Our doctors get to work providing you with sedation of your choosing. This is meant to make the procedure much more comfortable for you. Some of our patients choose local anesthetic, but it may be a good idea to have general anesthesia if you are going to be having multiple implants placed at the same time. The gums are then cut and separated to expose the underlying bone. Once this is done, the doctor will drill into the bone and insert the implant. The implant will mend with the bone in about three to four months. You’ll then come back in so that we can get you ready to have a crown placed on top of the newly healed implant.