Do you have missing teeth? Are you tired of your dentures and bridges that just don't fit well? It might be time to consider dental implants.
Dental implants are an alternative to traditional teeth replacement options such as bridges and dentures. They are designed to replicate the function of your natural teeth, and offer various advantages over traditional teeth replacement solutions.
Our experts at Phillips Prosthodontics can discuss with you the best treatment options for restoring your smile!
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a reliable teeth replacement solution. It is a metallic, screw-like device that is inserted into your jawbone which acts as the natural tooth root. It stimulates the jawbone and plays an integral role in keeping it healthy. It also provides an anchor for the artificial tooth.
The artificial tooth called the crown, is attached to the dental implant with the help of another device known as an abutment, which connects the synthetic crown to the dental implant.
Unlike traditional teeth replacement solutions such as bridges and dentures, dental implants securely fit in the oral cavity and provide support for your artificial teeth. Since dental implants fully integrate into the jawbone, they do not cause any undesirable effects such as gagging or sore spots, which are common among traditional teeth replacement options.
However, to get dental implants, you need to have a healthy and dense jawbone. In addition, gum health along with your overall health should also be in good shape. Lastly, you should be committed to taking care of your dental implants by following good oral practices coupled with regular dental visits.
Dentists who specialize in tooth implants in Greensboro, NC, typically use two types of implants, which the American Dental Association also recommends.
Endosteal implants
The most commonly used type of dental implants, endosteal implants, are embedded in the jawbone exactly as the tooth's natural root to support the crown.
Subperiosteal implants
Subperiosteal implants are less commonly used and work as a frame that's fitted on the jawbone below the gum tissue. The frame provides support to the posts, which in turn provide a foundation for the crown.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer various advantages over traditional tooth replacement options.
A Reliable and Durable Teeth Replacement Solution
Dental implants are a reliable and durable solution to missing teeth. With appropriate care and good dental hygiene practices, dental implants can last for up to 30 years.
Natural Appearance and Function
Dental implants look and function very similarly to your natural teeth. Since they don't stand out in your oral cavity, dental implants allow patients to carry out their daily activities confidently.
Improved Oral Cavity Functionality and Facial Appearance
Given that dental implants replicate the function of natural tooth roots, they help restore the functionality of your oral cavity. With dental implants, you can enjoy an improved ability to chew your desired food and speak clearly and more confidently.
Moreover, since dental implants are embedded in the jawbone, they provide adequate stimulation to your bone, which helps preserve bone and facial structure.
High Success Rate
When an experienced dental expert performs the dental implant procedure, the solution offers a high success rate. Dental implants are a highly successful solution to missing teeth for individuals with good oral and overall health.
Dental Implant Process
Now that you have an understanding of dental implants, here's an insight into the steps involved in the dental implant procedure.
Dental Implant Consultation
Once you've decided to choose dental implants as a solution to your oral health problem, you'll have to undergo an initial consultation with an experienced prosthodontist like Dr. Julie Phillips at Phillips Prosthodontics. Dr. Julie Phillips and other experts on the team will determine whether you're the right candidate for a dental implant.
Review of Medical History and Scans
Following the initial consultation, our dentist will review your complete medical history and also conduct a comprehensive oral examination.
While an x-ray is usually required before the procedure, our dental practitioner may also recommend a CAT scan of your mouth in some cases. These scans help dentists determine jawbone density and allow them to assess the need for bone grafting. In case your jawbone isn't healthy enough, our dentist may recommend taking bone tissue from other parts of your oral cavity or body and implanting it in your jawbone to improve its health and density.
A CAT scan of your mouth will also help locate vital facial structures such as nerves and sinuses so any damage to these sensitive areas during the procedure can be avoided.
Initial Implant Placement
Following the initial consultation and examination, if you're the right candidate for dental implants, our dentist will make an incision on the site of your lost tooth. The incision is required to place the implant exactly where your tooth root used to be. Our dentist will also drill into your jawbone to create a hole for perfect placement of the implant.
Once the implant is placed, we will stitch up the incision site and recommend a healing time of up to six months. The healing period allows your dental implant to completely integrate with the jawbone through a process known as osseointegration.
Placement of Abutment and Artificial Teeth
After six months of healing, we will once again make an incision in your jawbone to expose the dental implant. An abutment is then placed on the implant, which connects the implant with the artificial tooth.
While the dental implant procedure is relatively straightforward, it requires frequent dental check-ups. These visits to the dental clinic help us assess the healing process and make relevant interventions if required.
Dental Implants in Greensboro NC
If you are missing teeth or are looking for a reliable tooth replacement solution, get in touch with Phillips Prosthodontics. At our dental facility, our experts will assess your oral health condition to determine whether you're a candidate for dental implants.
Whether you're missing a single tooth or need multiple teeth replacement, we offer several dental implant options that can help restore the functionality of your oral cavity and improve your overall facial structure. Call us now at 336-274-5400 to schedule your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Dental implants are chosen for their durability and functionality. They offer a permanent solution for missing teeth, providing a stable and strong foundation for replacement teeth. Unlike dentures, implants are anchored in the jawbone, offering comfort and a natural feel.
What Can Dental Implants Help With?
Implants can replace single or multiple missing teeth, prevent bone loss, maintain facial structure, and improve bite and chewing ability. They can also anchor dental bridges or support dentures, offering an improved alternative to traditional tooth replacement methods.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Yes, dental implants are considered safe for most people. The procedure has a high success rate and is one of the most well-established and researched treatments in dentistry. However, as with any surgery, there are risks involved, so it's essential to discuss your medical history and concerns with your dentist.
