The Dental Implant Treatment

Dental Implants are artificial tooth replacements that are commonly used to counter tooth loss.  Dental implants can provide natural looking artificial teeth that feel completely secure and blend in with your smile. There are many reasons that one might lose a tooth.  Tooth decay, root canal failure, gum disease, trauma to the mouth, excessive wear and tear and congenital defects are all potential causes of tooth loss.  Many individuals become self conscious when losing a tooth; it can cause some to stop smiling and talking.  Dental Implants are a logical, durable way to counteract tooth loss.

While implants are a great way to fill in gaps caused by tooth loss, they are not something that will work for everyone.  Patients must be in good health, they must have healthy gums, there must be adequate bone to support the Dental Implant and they must be committed to scrupulous oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist.  For anyone who is considering getting implants, undergo a full evaluation by your dentist to ensure you are a proper candidate for the procedure.

If you are a good Dental Implant candidate, the procedure will begin with the placing of the implant or anchor (this is the root that stabilizes the dental prosthetic placed on the implant).  Surgery for anchor placement can take several hours and once completed, it can take up to six months for the bone to grow around the anchor to hold it firmly in place.  Once the anchor is firmly in place, the next step is to place the artificial tooth or teeth.  Dental implants are safe and effective for placing crowns and bridges and can also be used to stabilize upper and lower dentures.

Depending on a number of different factors, Dental Implant surgery can be done either in a dental office or in a hospital. The severity of each individual case will decide whether a local or general anesthetic may be used. After the initial surgery, pain medications and, when necessary, antibiotics are prescribed.  Once the treatment is complete, patients will be rewarded with a stable, long lasting solution for tooth loss.  Dental Implants are stronger and more durable than other restoration options, so patients can feel confident they’ve chosen a solution that will last.