Implant Care

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Why do I need dental implants?

Fifty million teeth will be removed this year as a result of infection, gum disease or trauma (accident and injury). When teeth have been removed, several problems occur. The remaining teeth shift, rotate and become crooked, causing a bad bite and making it difficult to chew food properly. Unsightly spaces or large gaps between your teeth may cause embarrassment.

You need to ask yourself these questions:

Do I feel comfortable when I smile, speak or eat?
Do my dentures slip or cause sore spots when I chew?
Do I hide my smile because of unsightly spaces between my teeth or missing teeth?
Are my teeth loose and need to be stabilized following treatment for advanced gum disease?
Do I regularly need my dentures relined because of bone resorption?

What are dental implants?: Dental implants are one of the greatest advancements in dentistry. Dental implants have the capability to serve as substitutes for natural tooth roots. These devices fit into the jaw bone and are considered both safe and effective to support dentures, caps or crowns and fixed bridges. These implants are not new. The ancient Egyptians utilized the implant, making their implants out of jade, sapphire and ivory.

What are dental implants made of?: Implants are made from a variety of different materials. One of such materials is a metal called titanium that is compatible with the bone of the jaw. In fact, this bone likes titanium so much that it actually fuses with the implant. Today, over 400 companies manufacture and/or sell dental implants. The implant is a small post that protrudes from the gum tissue. Several of these may be placed based on the amount of space that needs to be filled. Crowns, bridges or dentures are placed on top of these implants.

How do I know if I am a candidate for dental implants?: Your family dentist and dental hygienist are part of a group of specialists that form the implant team. These team members, in conjunction with the maxillofacial surgeon or other specialist, will decide if you are a good candidate for an implant.

Can I get my dental implants in one dentist office appointment?: Implant placement usually takes a number of appointments over a three-month period of time. There are two surgeries involved: one to place the implant into the bone and one to uncover the top of the implant. Then the general dentist will place the prosthesis on the implant. Once the implant is complete, you can start using it immediately with no discomfort.

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