Tooth loss is a serious issue that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Without your teeth, basic functions such as eating and speaking become more difficult. The quality of your smile, and your confidence, decline. Your jawbone also begins to change shape, altering your bite and impacting your oral health further. Traditionally, missing teeth have been treated with either
bridges or
dentures. Today, there is another option available. Fairmount Dental Center can help with
dental implants.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a modern alternative to traditional bridges and dentures. This unique treatment involves the use of small titanium posts, which we surgically implanted directly into your jawbone, to support your replacement teeth. Your bone fuses to the implants as you heal, which integrates them into the jaw and turns them into stable, immovable roots. The
crowns are secured in place on top of these posts with small screws. They are not removable and provide a permanent solution to tooth loss.
Dental implants are a versatile treatment and can be used to address a wide array of different needs. There are several different types of dental implants. No matter if you are missing a single tooth or many teeth, there is a type of implant for you.
| • |
Single tooth implants: A single post supports a single crown.
|
| • |
Multiple teeth implants: Called an implant supported bridge, one or more implants support two or more consecutive missing teeth.
|
| • |
Implant supported denture: This treatment uses 6 to 8 implants to support a full arch of replacement teeth.
|
| • |
All-on-4® Treatment Concept: This treatment provides an alternative to an implant-supported denture in the case that you do not have sufficient bone mass to support the implants. Rather than undergoing a bone graft, this treatment uses four strategically placed implants to maximize contact between the posts and your bone. |
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental problems can lead to severe diseases if not treated in time. Unlike former dentistry practices, modern dentistry offers various solutions to restore patients' lost smiles and eating habits. The most common problem many patients face is tooth decay. If not treated in time, tooth decay may lead to tooth extraction and require
dental implants for proper eating. Dr. Luisa Snyder and at Fairmount Dental Center recommend visiting your dentist every six months to avoid dental diseases.
How are Dental Implants Placed?
Dental implants require oral surgery for placement. After determining you are a candidate for dental implants, we move forward with the procedure. A local anesthetic and sedation are used, ensuring that you remain comfortable throughout. Small incisions are made in the gums, exposing the jawbone. We then drill small holes into the bone and insert the titanium posts. Finally, the gums are sutured closed, and temporary teeth are placed.
Healing from dental implant surgery can take between 4 to 12 months, depending upon the health of your mouth and the number of implants we place. Healing is monitored closely to make sure the bone is fusing to the posts properly. Once you have fully healed, we then begin the process of placing your permanent replacement teeth. The temporary teeth are removed, and impressions of the mouth are taken. These impressions are sent to a lab, where the teeth are created. Once they are ready, they are screwed into place on the implants.
Dental Implant Restoration
Dr. Luisa Snyder and at Fairmount Dental Center may suggest
dental implant restoration. Even though the process of dental implant restoration might take several months, the vast majority of patients believe it is well worth the wait since it provides an efficient solution to oral health issues. We understand how overwhelming dental procedures might be; at Fairmount Dental Center we let you know what you can expect with a dental implant restoration.
Dental implants offer several benefits:
| • |
They look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth. Your smile is instantly restored upon the placement of your permanent teeth, and you do not need to adjust to them being there.
|
| • |
They are easy to care for. They can be brushed and flossed just like your natural teeth.
|
| • |
They are comfortable. The teeth are supported by the implants, rather than your gums. This keeps pressure off of your gum tissue and prevents the formation of painful sores.
|
| • |
Dental implants protect your jawbone. The implants stimulate your jawbone just like the roots of your natural teeth. This helps to stop bone loss and protect the health and shape of your jaw. No other treatment for missing teeth can offer this benefit. |
Learn More About Dental Implants:
If you have suffered tooth loss, whether, from facial trauma,
gum disease or another issue, it is important to have those teeth replaced as soon as possible. Call Fairmount Dental Center today to schedule your consultation at (503) 362-8364.
