The advancement of dental implants in tooth restoration has changed everything. With them, we are no longer simply replacing teeth when they are lost or extracted, we are rebuilding them. The difference is in the foundation and how the implant benefits your entire oral health. We invite you to learn more about tooth implants and how they can benefit you.

What are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a device we use to reestablish connection between the tooth and bone. It is a post that we use as an artificial tooth root. The implant is shaped with a threaded end that is sunk into the bone, and a head that we can attach a prosthodontic to. We use the implant to stabilize a false tooth, bridge or denture to the jawbone. Dental implants are generally made using titanium, but there are also non-metallic ceramic options available.

How do Tooth Implants Work?

Dental implants work primarily due to our own natural ability to heal. Our bone tissue is continuously growing and renewing. When a tooth is lost, the bone recognizes the loss of motion and pulls back its resources. We spark new growth by placing a bone graft and inserting the implant device into the bone. As the bone grows, it grows up and around the threaded portion of the implant, which provides a lot of surface area for the bone to be in contact with the implant, fusing the two firmly together. This natural healing ability is known as osseointegration, which is the integration or combination of bone to a device. Once healed, the implant is now part of the bone just as your tooth root once was.

How Many Teeth Can I Restore with Dental Implants?

The great part about dental implants is how we are able to customize them to fit your needs. Dental implants come with a variety of options, including the material used, the length used, the width, and how many teeth they are replacing. We can restore a single tooth, multiple teeth or even all of your teeth with varying prosthodontics. A single implant can be used with a dental crown, or as one side to anchor a bridge. Multiple implants can be used to anchor a dental bridge, or even four implants can be used to anchor a full arch dental bridge. Implants can be used to retain dentures and still allow the patient to remove the denture we needed using a snapping or clasping system. The options are wide to fit every need.

Are Dental Implants Right For Me?

The best way to know if dental implants are right for you is to schedule a consultation with our team. We can evaluate your needs and discuss options that are specific to you. In general, the surgical placement of dental implants is a minimally invasive treatment, meaning it is often approved for most patients, no matter their age. What we do require is the patient’s ability to heal in an appropriate amount of time. Healing can be disrupted by various medications, medical disorders or if the patient smokes.

All of these issues can be worked out and we are happy to discuss them with your physician if needed. We invite you to inquire about dental implants, it will improve your oral health and your function.