Implants
Dental implants can be an excellent way of replacing a missing tooth or teeth. These cleverly engineered devices are inserted into the jaw bone where a tooth has been lost. Implants look and feel just like your natural teeth, thus rapidly becoming a preference for many of our patients who wish to “fill the gap”. In essence, an implant is the next best thing to your natural teeth.
An additional advantage of placing an implant over a bridge or partial denture is that it does not involve or affect the adjacent natural teeth. An implant can also be used to support dentures, especially in the lower jaw, to significantly enhance comfort and performance of the denture.
Furthermore, implants may stop or slow down the bone loss that occurs once teeth have been lost. The overall dental benefits of implants, along with improved aesthetic qualities and long-term stability have made implants a highly recommended and popular option for patients all over the world. At Bright White, we pride ourselves in having dentists who are trained in this field in order to provide our patients with the optimal treatment options.
What is an implant?
An implant is like an artificial tooth root which is inserted into the jaw bone in the space left by a missing tooth. These titanium screws are about the size of a tooth root and act as a support for the overlying replacement tooth. Depending on the size of the space left by the missing tooth/teeth, one or more implants can be used. Once inserted, the root is covered with gum tissue and is allowed to heal.
After a few months of healing, an artificial tooth or crown is attached to the implant. These implants not only support a single crown but can also support entire dentures.
Dental Implants: Are They Right For You?
Despite recent advances in the field, patients may sometimes lose their teeth due to accidents or periodontal disease. Ideally it is best not to lose your teeth at all, however there is a silver-lining to this unfortunate situation if it occurred – dental implants. These titanium posts attach directly to the jawbone and anchor a permanent artificial tooth.
Implants are lifelike and practically indistinguishable from natural teeth, and they fit so securely that you won't even notice them when you chew and speak. In essence, they're the next best thing to your natural teeth. Furthermore, implant dentistry has advanced to the point that dentists can place implants with the same confidence and skills they've used in the past for crowns and bridges.
In many cases, one dentist places the implant and another makes and fits the replacement tooth. Both general dentists and specialists-Oral and Maxillofacial surgeons, Prosthodontists or Periodontists-can also perform the procedure. Therefore upon examination, we thoroughly evaluate each individual patient’s situation and devise a plan of treatment catering to ones needs.
How are implants placed?
Most implants are surgically placed directly into the jawbone. First, x-rays are taken to make sure there is adequate bone in the jaw to support the titanium roots. Then, models of your mouth are created so precise measurements can be made. Once the exact location of the implant has been pinpointed, it is surgically placed into the jawbone. This usually requires two procedures - one to place the titanium cylinders and another after the implants have healed completely to re-expose the cylinders and connect a post to the implant. The artificial tooth is then connected to the post.
Start-to-finish, often the procedure can take between 3 - 6 months. The lengthy part is called Osseo-integration, which is the fusing of the implant to the bone tissue; In certain situations a new tooth can be placed immediately, and in others over a year later. The best approach will be worked out at your assessment stage.
Do implants work for everyone?
A key requirement for the success of dental implant is good general health. You also have to have healthy gums and sufficient bone in your jaws to support the implants, and you must be willing to be meticulous about regular dental visits and your dental hygiene. Implants also aren't advised if you suffer from a chronic illness such as diabetes, as this can interfere with healing. Smokers are also not good candidates for implants; smokers are at greater risk for gum disease than non-smokers, and gum disease weakens the gum and bone tissue needed to support implants.
Unfortunately, not everyone has the right jaw structure for implants. Adequate bone is required for implant placement, and there are some medical contraindications. A complete dental examination is required to evaluate your suitability for implants. Healthy gums and jaw support are key to successful implant treatment.
If you're interested in implants to replace a missing or lost tooth, we will perform a thorough evaluation to determine if your health and lifestyle are conducive to this type of restoration.
Eat, smile and talk with confidence and comfort
People are living longer and healthier lives, and because more people are recognizing the benefits of preventive care, more people are keeping most of their teeth for a lifetime. But sometimes, despite the best of efforts, a tooth is lost. Implants help patients eat, drink and talk while appearing as natural as possible.
Single-tooth implant | Implant-supported bridges | Implant for Dentures
