Dental Implants for a Lasting, Confident Grin!
Are you tired of feeling self-conscious about your missing teeth? Our Harris, NY dentist, Dr. Ari Cohen, offers dental implants as an innovative solution that can give you a confident smile while improving your overall oral health. Dental implants not only restore missing teeth but also revive self-assurance, offering a permanent solution for a confident, beaming smile.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root made of titanium, which serves as a sturdy foundation for a replacement tooth, such as a crown. Implants not only restore the appearance of your smile but also help preserve your oral health by preventing bone loss and maintaining the integrity of your jaw.
Types of Dental Implants
Dental implants present a versatile solution, addressing diverse needs from replacing a solitary tooth to supporting a complete arch of teeth.
Single tooth implants
For those missing one or more teeth, single tooth implants make for an optimal choice. They involve the placement of a dental implant and a crown to replace a missing tooth, with the implant acting as a substitute for the natural tooth root and the crown substituting the visible portion of the tooth.
Implant-supported bridges
Implant-supported dentures are a game-changer for individuals who require a full arch of teeth replacement. These removable dentures are secured to two or more implants, offering a fixed or removable solution that replicates the appearance and feel of natural teeth.
Implant-supported dentures
Implant-supported dentures are a game-changer for individuals who require a full arch of teeth replacement. These removable dentures are secured to two or more implants, offering a fixed or removable solution that replicates the appearance and feel of natural teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
The advantages offered by dental implants renders them a compelling choice for individuals aiming to boost their oral health and aesthetics. These benefits include:
- Natural Appearance and Functionality: Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, providing a seamless and comfortable fit.
- Improved Oral Health: Unlike bridges, dental implants do not require the alteration of adjacent teeth, preserving overall oral health and integrity.
- Long-lasting Solution: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, offering a durable and cost-effective tooth replacement option.
- Enhanced Confidence: Dental implants restore a confident smile, boosting self-esteem and allowing you to engage in social activities without worry.
- Improved Eating Experience: Dental implants allow for normal eating habits, enabling you to enjoy a wide variety of foods without restrictions.
Candidacy for Dental Implants
Determining if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants involves an evaluation of various factors, such as oral health, overall health, and the presence of sufficient jawbone to support the implant. A successful candidate should:
- Demonstrate interest in replacing one or more missing teeth
- Possess good oral health
- Have sufficient bone density in the jaw, and be a non-smoker.
It is essential to consult with your Harris dentist to determine the best course of action for your individual needs.
Dental Implant Procedure
Initial consultation and evaluation
During the initial consultation, Dr. Cohen will:
- Assess your oral health and medical history
- Determine if dental implants are the right solution for you
- Provide an ideal platform to articulate your goals and ask any questions
- Consider other treatment options if needed
In addition to evaluating your oral health, your Harris dentist will also consider factors such as bone density, gum health, and overall health to ensure that dental implants are a suitable and safe option for you. A thorough evaluation plays a pivotal role in formulating a tailor-made dental implant treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.
Bone grafting (if necessary)
Bone grafting may be required in cases where the patient’s jawbone is not strong or thick enough to support the implant. The bone grafting procedure involves:
- Replacing missing bone with material from the patient’s own body
- Using an artificial, synthetic, or natural substitute
- Restoring volume and density to the jawbone
Once the bone graft has been placed and the jawbone has healed, the dental implant process can proceed.
Implant placement
The dental implant placement stage is integral to the dental implant procedure, involving the following steps in dental implant surgery:
- The oral surgeon makes an incision to access the bone.
- Holes are drilled in the bone for implant insertion.
- The dental implant is placed into the drilled hole.
Depending on the specific case, an abutment, a metal spacer, may be affixed to the implant during this stage to facilitate the fabrication and placement of the crown. A temporary prosthesis, such as a denture, can be provided for aesthetic purposes while the implant heals.
Healing and osseointegration
Healing and osseointegration is the process of the jawbone growing around the implant post, creating a strong foundation for the artificial tooth. This process is vital for the long-term success of the dental implant, as it ensures the implant is securely anchored within the jawbone.
The healing and osseointegration period can span a few months, during which maintaining good oral hygiene and adhering to your dental provider’s guidance becomes crucial for successful implant integration.
Abutment and crown placement
Following sufficient healing of the jawbone, the concluding stage of the dental implant procedure entails affixing a connector, or abutment, to the implant post and situating a custom-made crown on top. The crown is designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental implants can be a lengthy process, as there needs to be enough bone mass in your jaw for the implantation and if not, a bone graft surgery must take place first. Therefore, one of the downsides of dental implants is the time involved in the healing process.
Dental implants typically last for 10-30 years, with the implant itself possibly lasting a lifetime with proper care. The crown of the implant is more prone to wear and tear and will need replacing in 10-15 years.
Dental implants may involve surgery and recovery, but the procedure itself is typically painless due to use of local anesthesia. There may be tenderness and swelling during recovery, however pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications.
Dental implants are constructed with titanium, a material that is compatible with the jawbone for strong and long-lasting dental solutions.
Transform Your Smile Today with Dental Implants!
Dental implants have revolutionized the way we approach tooth replacement, offering a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing solution for missing teeth. By understanding the procedure, benefits, and candidacy requirements, you can make an informed decision about whether dental implants are the right choice for you. Don’t let missing teeth hold you back – take the first step towards a confident, radiant smile today by giving our Harris, NY dental office a call at (845) 794-4545.