Dental Implants

Traditionally, restoration of a missing tooth or teeth meant either a bridge or some form of denture. While these options are still viable restorations for many situations, advancements in dental technology have enabled dental implants to become an attractive and often preferred option for restoring missing teeth.

Dental implants are permanent, stable tooth replacements that can be used in place of one or more missing teeth. As a permanent replacement for tooth loss, implants can facilitate better long-term oral health and an improved quality of life, as well.

A dental implant consists of a post, which is a screw made of a bio-compatible material (often titanium),  an abutment that is threaded into the post, and a tooth restoration, such as a "crown".   The post is surgically placed in the jawbone at the site of the missing tooth to take the place of the missing tooth root, providing a stable basis for the tooth restoration.

Dr. Phillip has been successfully performing dental implant restorations for several years now, and has seen outstanding results in cases ranging from a single tooth restoration to full-mouth reconstructions.

BENEFITS OF DENTAL IMPLANTS

Having one or more missing teeth is more than just a cosmetic issue. Missing teeth can negatively impact your oral health and quality of life if left untreated for an extended period. Once a tooth is lost, the structures and bone that supported the teeth are no longer stimulated, causing these structures and bone to quickly deteriorate. In fact, as much as 25% of bone can be lost within the first year from just one missing tooth, allowing the surrounding teeth to potentially shift and take on a heavier load, which can lead to more rapid breakdown of the remaining teeth .

This destabilization causes an increased risk for gum disease and tooth decay, as well. Over time, the loss of structure and bone causes the appearance of your face to change, often leading to creases in the corners of your mouth and an appearance of aging.

Implants provide stability for facial structures and permit bone to regenerate around the implant site, leading to a better long term prognosis for both the restoration and the surrounding teeth, bone, and gum tissue. Implants also have the added benefit of providing easier home care, as the restoration is cared for with regular brushing, flossing and professional cleanings, just like your natural teeth.

TYPES OF DENTAL IMPLANTS

Implants can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth, as well as to support dentures and partial dentures.

• Replacing Multiple Teeth (Implant Bridge)
  When you have more than one tooth missing, implants can be used in conjunction with a traditional dental bridge to provide a stable, long-lasting restoration. You don't even need an implant for every missing tooth. Instead, implant teeth can act as supports for fixed bridgework. For example, if you are missing three teeth in a row, two implants can be placed, one on either side of the gap, and a crown in between that has no implant underneath. That way, you won't need to use any of your remaining natural teeth as bridge supports, which could weaken them and make them more susceptible to decay.

• Replace All Teeth Permanently
  Implants can support an entire arch of upper or lower replacement teeth that are fixed into the mouth and are never removed. Sometimes the new teeth can be supported by as few as 4 implants. It's comparable to the structure of a table, which only needs 4 legs to hold it up. In cases where jawbone density and volume have deteriorated, 5 or 6 implants might be needed to support a row of 10 to 12 teeth. Dental implant replacement teeth protect your jawbone, won't slip, and should last a long time with proper care.
  
  

• Support a Removable Partial or Full Denture
  Implants can even make removable dentures more comfortable, effective and healthier to wear. Traditional dentures rest on the gums and put pressure on the underlying bone. This accelerates bone loss so that the jaw shrinks and the dentures slip, particularly on the bottom. But with current technology and techniques, we can attach a removable denture onto implants, transferring that pressure into the bone structure rather than the bone surface. This prevents the dentures from slipping while you eat and speak, and preserves the bone directly beneath them.

WHAT IS A DENTAL IMPLANT PROCEDURE LIKE?

Depending on your specific condition and the type of implant restoration chosen, a treatment plan is developed by Dr. Phillip to meet your needs.

Typically, one or more dental implants are inserted directly into the jawbone in the space vacated by the missing tooth or teeth. The restoration is then be left to heal for a period of weeks or months before the final crown or bridge is attached. During this healing period, the implant actually fuses to the bone surrounding it.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER RECEIVING A DENTAL IMPLANT?

The two biggest risk factors for most dental restorations, including implants, are poor oral hygiene and excessive biting forces. Poor oral hygiene or a lack of regular cleanings can lead to a destructive bacterial infection called peri-implantitis. Brushing and flossing your teeth on a daily basis, along with regular professional cleanings, can help prevent this condition.

Excessive biting forces can come from a habit of clenching or grinding your teeth. If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, a nightguard will be recommended to protect your implants. Periodic follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your implant, teeth and gums to make sure everything remains healthy.

Since implants are a long-term investment in your smile, your health and your well-being, it is best to protect your investment by taking good care of your new restoration!