WHAT ARE THEY?
Implants are used to replace a missing tooth or teeth. These can alter the shape of the mouth and the overall look of the face. Gaps in the teeth can hinder the ability to bite and chew certain foods. Gaps in the smile left by missing teeth can diminish confidence and be a source of insecurity. Dental Implants provide a natural-feeling solution for these issues. Implants often feel more secure than traditional removable dentures, and can even be used to provide support to a full denture. This results in the ability to eat and speak with greater comfort and confidence. In cases where several adjacent teeth are missing, a fixed bridge can be attached to implants as an alternative to a removable partial denture plate.
ADVANTAGES OF DENTAL IMPLANTS
To Insert implants, a nickel-titanium implant is placed in the area where the tooth is missing. A process known as osseointegration then takes effect. This is a process in which bone grows around the implant, bonding it to the jaw. A crown tooth/teeth can be fixed on top of the implant either by screwing it in place or bonding it to replace the missing tooth/teeth.
Dental implant surgery is often minor and doesn’t cause major disruption to everyday life. The procedure itself is gradual, as time must be allotted for the osseointegration to take effect. While implant success cannot be guaranteed, the success rate for good candidates is high.
ARE YOU A CANDIDATE?
Overall health is taken into consideration when determining candidacy for dental implant surgery. The major limiting factor in determining candidacy is whether there is sufficient bone remaining to accept the implant. This is determined with the use of x-rays as well as a thorough examination of oral tissues and supporting bone.
"ALL ON FOUR"
This is a procedure in which four implants are placed in your top jaw (maxilla) or lower jaw (mandible) and the teeth are fixed to the implants. The implants and the teeth are placed in the same day. The teeth remain in your mouth and you don't take them out.
