Dental Implants

1. Dental implants offer a permanent and natural-looking alternative to traditional dentures and bridges. The implant is a titanium screw that is surgically inserted into the jawbone where the tooth roots used to be. Once in place, the implant encourages your body's natural process of fusing bone to it which creates a solid foundation for your tooth restoration. Most implants are made of titanium, a biocompatible and safe material that is known for promoting osseointegration. Most people who are missing teeth or have failing tooth restorations can be candidates for dental implants. General oral health is one of the main criteria to qualify for an implant, as any infections could interfere with healing after surgery and potentially damage more teeth or facial bones. Smoking can also cause complications after surgery and slow down the healing process. Before surgery, patients should follow a strict oral care plan. This includes frequent brushing and flossing as well as avoiding chewing hard food. Patients should also visit their dentist for an oral examination every six months to ensure their mouth and gums remain healthy. Patients who do not maintain an oral hygiene routine are more likely to have long-term issues with their implant, such as gum disease. This can cause the implant failure and require surgery to remove. The treatment planning phase for dental implants includes a series of X-rays to evaluate the amount of bone in the upper and lower jaws and determine if there is enough to support an implant. A Odin House Dental Surgery bone graft might be required if the amount of bone is not sufficient. There are a number of different types of bone graft materials available, including bone from another area in your body or a synthetic bone-substitute that can stimulate new bone growth. The type of graft chosen will depend on your individual needs and will be discussed with you during your consultation. If you have enough bone for an implant, your next step is to book a surgery. During the procedure your oral surgeon will make a cut on your gum to expose your bone. Holes are then drilled into the bone where the implant metal post will be placed. The implant abutment is then attached to the post and the restoration (mostly a crown) is placed over it. Once the restoration has been placed, the implant abutment won't be visible. If you prefer that it be less noticeable, you can ask us to have the abutment shaped so that it will sit lower in your gum line. Dental implants are an excellent option to replace a single or multiple missing teeth due to their durability and lifelike appearance. With proper maintenance, an implant will last a lifetime. Please contact our office if you'd like to know more about this treatment. A member of our team will be happy to assist you!