|
Dental Implants
|
|
|
Injury, periodontal disease or tooth decay can all
lead to loss of teeth. This experience can be traumatic and affect
self-confidence as well as contribute to further dental problems.
Dental implants are a practical solution to what may feel like an
overwhelming dilemma.
When a tooth is lost, it is best to replace it as soon as possible
with a non-removable implant. A dental implant is essentially a
man-made tooth root. These implants resemble the natural form of a
tooth root. The implant is placed beneath the gum and is fused to
the bone in the jaw by the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, and
then crowned with an artificial tooth. |
|
 |
|
| What Can Dental Implants Do?
|
|
| Replace one or more teeth without affecting bordering teeth.
|
| Support a bridge and eliminate the need for a removable partial denture.
|
| Provide support for a denture, making it more secure and comfortable. |
|
 |
|
 |
| Before Dental Implant |
|
After Dental Implant |
|
|
Dental Implants are a Team Effort
Dental implants combine the best of modern science and technology, including a team approach spanning several disciplines.
A successful implant requires that all parties involved — the patient; the restorative dentist, who makes the crown for the implant; and the oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who surgically places the implant, follow a careful plan of treatment. All members of the implant team stay in close contact with each other to make sure everyone clearly understands what needs to be done to meet the patient's expectations.
The team is organized as soon as the decision for placing a dental implant is reached. Following an evaluation that includes a comprehensive examination, x-rays and a consultation with the patient and members of the implant team, the oral and maxillofacial surgeon surgically places the posts, or implants, in the patient's jaw.
When the implants have stabilized in the jaw, the restorative dentist prepares an impression of the upper and lower jaws. This impression is used to make the model from which the dentures or crowns are created.
The teamwork continues long after the implant and crown have been placed. Follow-up examinations with the oral and maxillofacial surgeon and restorative dentist are critical, and progress is carefully charted. Both the oral and maxillofacial surgeon and the restorative dentist continue to work together to provide the highest level of aftercare.
Advantages of Dental Implants Over Dentures or a Bridge
Every way you look at it, dental implants are a better solution to the problem of missing teeth. |
|
| Esthetic- Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth! Since dental implants integrate into the structure of your bone, they prevent the bone loss and gum recession that often accompany bridgework and dentures. No one will ever know that you have a replacement tooth. |
| Tooth-saving- Dental implants don't sacrifice the quality of your adjacent teeth like a bridge does because neighboring teeth are not altered to support the implant. More of your own teeth are left untouched, a significant long-term benefit to your oral health! |
| Confidence- Dental implants will allow you to once again speak and eat with comfort and confidence! They are secure and offer freedom from the irksome clicks and wobbles of dentures. They'll allow you to say goodbye to worries about misplaced dentures and messy pastes and glues. |
| Reliable- The success rate of dental implants is highly predictable. They are considered an excellent option for tooth replacement. If properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime. |
|
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Whether you are a young, middle-aged or older adult; whether you need to replace one tooth, several teeth, or all your teeth, there is a dental implant solution for you. Working closely with Dr. Baker you can decide if dental implants are a good option for you.
In general, dental implants may be right for you if you: |
|
| Have one or more missing teeth |
| Have a jawbone that's reached full growth |
| Have adequate bone to secure the implants, or are able to have a bone grafting procedure |
| Have healthy oral tissues |
| Don't have health conditions that will impair bone healing |
| Are unable or unwilling to wear
dentures |
| Want to improve your speech |
| Are willing to commit several months to the process |
|
Many patients who have selected dental implants describe a quality of life that is much more comfortable and secure than the lifestyle endured by those with fixed bridges or removable dentures. Dentures often make a person feel and look older than they are, cause embarrassment in social situations when they slip and click, and restrict the everyday pleasure of eating comfortably.
When they count the benefits they enjoy as a result of their dental implants, patients say their implants eliminate the day-to-day frustrations and discomfort of ill-fitting dentures and fixed bridges. With a sense of renewed self-confidence, many people rediscover the excitement of an active lifestyle shared with family and friends and the chance to speak clearly and comfortably with co-workers. For all these reasons, people with dental implants often say they feel better... they look better... they live better. |
|
