What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed in the jaw bone. They are used to secure or support a dental restoration when a tooth is missing or will be extracted. The implant will fuse with the surrounding bone creating a durable and stable foundation for replacement teeth. They are now considered the number one solution to replacing missing teeth.
Am I A Candidate For Dental Implants?
The most important factor to qualify for dental implants is to be in good health, no matter how old you are. The process will involve at least one surgery so you need to be healthy enough to undergo that. You should also have healthy gums and an optimal bone structure to anchor the implants.
If you have suffered some bone loss, we may recommend bone grafting to ensure the best results. Dr. Uttma Dham has extensive training in dental implants. She will analyze your overall and oral health during your consultation at our Plantation, FL dentist office to see if you are a candidate.
There are many situations where getting a dental implant would not be the best treatment for missing teeth such as taking certain medications or suffering from certain diseases. Please discuss these issues at your consultation.
How many implants will I need?
The number of implants you will need depends on the type of dental restoration you are receiving. For a single missing tooth, only one implant is needed to secure a dental crown.
For multiple missing teeth, the location and number will determine whether you need a dental bridge, partial denture or full denture. The number of implants needed to secure one of the following will be determined at your implant consultation but can range from two to eight in total per arch.
What does the process entail?
After a consultation at our Plantation, FL dentist office, Dr. Dham will create a detailed treatment plan. The process to get a dental implant secured restoration will take place in three phases. The first is the surgical implantation where the small posts will be placed into the jawbone.
The next phase is osseointegration and is vital to the success of your treatment. This is where the implants will heal and integrate with the existing bone creating a stable foundation. The last phase is when final restoration will be attached to the implant.
How long does it take to replace teeth using dental implants?
The length of time it will take to replace teeth with dental implants is different for each of our patients. There are a few factors that will determine this including the state of your oral health, how many implants are being placed, and the length of healing time needed. It can be as short as a few months, or more than a year for more complex cases.
Why should I choose dental implants over other dental restoration options?
Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option to preserve the jaw bone, preserve the health of the surrounding teeth and allow for better chewing function. Even though dental implants cost more up front, other dental restorations will eventually need repaired, replaced or adjusted. That cost will add up over the years. Dental implants are the only option that will feel, function, and look like natural teeth.