Implant
The importance of a full set of teeth
What happens when you don’t replace missing teeth is much more serious than aesthetic. If you are minus a few teeth, you may have already found that it’s more difficult to eat, speak or smile with confidence. We offer affordable dental implants that reshape the structure of your smile, restoring the aesthetics and functions of your teeth. Implants are custom-made to match exisiting teeth, and our dentists work with you step by step to deliver the smile of your dreams.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically implanted into the jaw to replace missing teeth. They can prevent further bone loss by providing a strong foundation for replacement teeth and act as an anchor for crowns. Once the implant has fused to the jaw bone the dentist attaches a crown or cap to the abutment, filling in the space where the missing tooth was.
Though the implant process is not complicated, it requires several steps. To begin with, a pin is implanted into your jawbone. After a few weeks of healing, the bone fuses to the implant. Your dentist then attaches a small connector post or abutment to the implant: this will hold your new tooth. Your dentist creates this new tooth from an impression, making sure that it will work together with all of your teeth to provide a healthy bite.
Good candidates for dental implants have healthy bones and gums, and usually only need a few teeth replaced (rather an entire mouthful).
Tooth implant process
The entire dental implant process can take on average between 6-10 months, but the timeline varies patient-by-patient. Though the implant process is not complicated, it is a surgical procedure that requires several steps. Depending on your oral health, there may be one or more dental treatment required prior to insertion of the artificial root to prepare the mouth for a dental implant. Moreover, the healing process is different for every patient on a case-by-case basis.
Good candidates for dental implants have healthy bones and gums. Smoking, poor gum health, bone recession, chronic illness and other risk-factors all affect the implant process and whether a patient is a candidate for implants. Good oral health is imperative for success of the implant.
Step 1: Preparation for a Dental Implant
In order for an implant to be successfully supported there must be enough bone and tissue in the jaw for the implant to anchor into. A bone graft is a treatment which replaces missing jawbone. Tissue grafts to regenerate gum tissue may also be required prior to starting the implant process. The prosthodontist will also perform x-rays, an examination and take measurements in preparation for the implant.
Step 2: Placement of Artificial Root
The implant artificial root is a titanium pin that is implanted into your jawbone. This root allows for the dentist to mount the replacement tooth or bridge onto the jawbone. After several months of healing, the bone fuses to the implant.
Step 3: Crown Placement
The dentist creates an artificial tooth that matches the appearance, shape and color of natural teeth, by taking impressions and measurements. The prosthodontist then attaches a small connector post or abutment to the implant: this will anchor the new tooth into the jaw. Upon delivery the tooth is attached onto the abutment, and the artificial tooth will look and function as a natural tooth.
Dental implants vs. dentures
Dentures and implants each offer patients significant health and aesthetic benefits, revitalize the smile and restore normal functionality like eating and speaking. While patients have a say in which restorative treatment they prefer, the dentist will also make recommendations on a case-by-case basis based off of the patient’s dental health and lifestyle factors like smoking.
Dental implants may be selected over dentures for these reasons:
Dentures can contribute to bone loss over time, up to 25% in the first year
Dentures can be very difficult for some people to get used to and in some cases do not fit comfortably. Some patients experience excessive salivation or a gagging reflex as the brain can take a while to recognize the introduction of dentures.
Dentures last only five to seven years, while with proper care dental implants (which are made of titanium) can last as long as natural teeth
Dental implants cause no difficulty with eating or talking
Dental implants look like natural teeth
Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing further bone loss and the aged sunken look that accompanies the loss
The Bereket Dental Difference
We provide high-quality dental care in state-of-the-art facilities, which feature a modern look.
Our doctors and dental team provide a thorough professional exam, every time, taking special care to:
- Deliver a comfortable, hassle-free dental visit
- Attend to any immediate issues you may have, including relieving pain from dental emergencies
- Answer your questions so that you can make informed health decisions
- Explain any procedures in your language of preference
- Teach you how to keep your mouth healthy