What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a modern, permanent solution for missing teeth. A dental implant consists of three main components:
- Implant Post – A titanium post surgically placed into your jawbone, mimicking the root of a natural tooth.
- Abutment – A connector piece that secures the artificial tooth to the implant post.
- Crown – The visible part of the implant is custom-made to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
At Summit Family Dentistry, we use cutting-edge technology, such as 3D imaging and digital scanners, to ensure the most precise and comfortable implant placement.
Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, dental implants provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution compared to traditional dentures or bridges.
Signs You May Need Dental Implants
Are dental implants the right choice for you? Here are some signs and symptoms that suggest you might benefit from them:
- Missing Teeth: Dental implants are an excellent long-term solution for anyone who has lost a single tooth or multiple teeth.
- Difficulty Chewing or Speaking: Missing teeth can alter your ability to chew certain foods or pronounce words.
- Loose Dentures or Bridges: Dental implants provide greater security and confidence if your prosthetics don’t fit well or feel unstable.
- Bone Loss in the Jaw: Missing teeth can cause bone deterioration. Dental implants can help stimulate bone growth and prevent further loss.
- Desire for a Natural-Looking Smile: Implants look and feel like natural teeth, improving appearance and functionality.
If any of these apply to you, our team at Summit Family Dentistry can evaluate your needs and determine if implants are right for you.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a range of benefits that make them a popular choice among patients:
- Longevity: Unlike bridges or dentures that may need frequent replacements, dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care.
- Improved Confidence: A complete smile can boost your self-esteem and help you feel more comfortable in social settings.
- Better Oral Health: Implants don’t require altering neighboring teeth, which helps preserve the integrity of your natural teeth.
- Enhanced Function: Enjoy eating, speaking, and smiling without worrying about shifting or uncomfortable prosthetics.
- Prevent Bone Loss: The titanium implant stimulates the jawbone, preventing the bone from shrinking over time.
With these benefits in mind, dental implants are a sound investment in oral health and overall quality of life.
The Dental Implant Process
Here’s a step-by-step look at how we approach dental implants at Summit Family Dentistry:
Consultation and Assessment
Our dentists will assess your oral health using advanced technology, such as digital X-rays and 3D imaging, during your initial visit to ensure precise placement and personalized treatment planning.
Preparatory Procedures (if needed):
We may perform procedures like bone grafting or tooth extractions to prepare your mouth for the implant if necessary.
Implant Placement:
Using the latest surgical techniques and tools, we will implant a titanium post into your jawbone. This post serves as the foundation for your new tooth.
Healing Period (Osseointegration):
Over several months, the implant fuses with your jawbone, ensuring stability and durability.
Abutment and Crown Placement:
Once healed, the abutment and custom-made crown are attached to complete your beautiful, functional new tooth.
Our team makes this process as smooth and comfortable as possible, with amenities like headphones, streaming services, hot beverages, and even nitrous oxide available to reduce anxiety.
Aftercare
Proper aftercare plays a crucial role in the success of your dental implants. Here are some tips to ensure your implants remain in excellent condition:
- Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily and floss daily, paying special attention to the implant area.
- Regular Checkups: Visit us every six months so we can monitor your implants and overall oral health.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Avoid hard candy or ice, as they can damage the crown.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking can hinder the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure.
- Use a Soft Toothbrush: To protect the implant crown, use a toothbrush with soft bristles.
Our dentists, Dr. Richard Harvey, Dr. Morgan Yoxall, Dr. Amanda Miller, and Dr. Eugenio “Gene” Montecinos, will provide personalized aftercare instructions to help you maintain your implants for years.
