Living with a missing tooth can affect more than just your smile – it can impact your self-esteem, the way you eat, and even how you speak. Whether it’s the result of an accident, tooth decay, or other dental issues, the gap left behind is more than just a cosmetic concern. It can lead to shifting teeth, difficulty chewing, and changes in your facial structure over time, making it important to address the issue sooner rather than later. If you’re tired of dealing with the challenges a missing tooth brings, you’re not alone – and there’s a solution that can restore both your smile and comfort.
At Elizabeth L. Wakim, DDS, we understand the impact missing teeth have on your daily life. Our practice offers dental implants as a long-term solution designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth. With our personalized approach, we aim to provide you with a treatment plan tailored to your needs so you can regain confidence and enjoy all the benefits of a full, healthy smile.
Types of Dental Implants
Each type of dental implant is designed to meet specific needs depending on your oral health and the location of the missing teeth. Some of the most common types of dental implants include:
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are surgically placed directly into the jawbone and act as artificial tooth roots to support replacement teeth. Typically, these implants are made of titanium and resemble small screws. After placement, the implant integrates with the bone over time, providing a strong and stable foundation for crowns or bridges.
Subperiosteal Implants
When there isn’t enough healthy jawbone to support endosteal implants, subperiosteal implants are used. Instead of being placed directly into the bone, subperiosteal implants sit on top of the jawbone, beneath the gum tissue. A metal framework is attached to the bone, and posts protrude through the gums to hold the replacement teeth in place. This option may be ideal for patients who don’t want or aren’t eligible for bone grafting.
All-on-4 Implants
All-on-4 implants are an innovative solution for individuals missing most or all of their teeth. With this method, four implants are strategically placed in the jawbone to support a full arch of prosthetic teeth. These implants provide the stability and function of natural teeth without requiring a separate implant for each missing tooth, making it a more efficient and cost-effective solution for full-mouth restoration.
Mini Implants
Mini implants are smaller in diameter than traditional implants, making them less invasive and quicker to place. They are often used in cases where space is limited or the jawbone density is insufficient for full-sized implants. Mini implants are commonly used to stabilize dentures, helping them snap securely into place for improved comfort and function.
Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants are a specialized option for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw. Instead of being anchored in the jawbone, these implants are placed in the cheekbone (zygomatic bone), which is denser and offers more support. Zygomatic implants are typically only used in complex cases where traditional implants aren’t possible without significant bone grafting.
What You Should Know About the Dental Implant Process
While the timeline may vary depending on your specific needs, the dental implant process generally includes the following stages:
- Initial Consultation: Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums, review your medical history, and take X-rays or 3D scans to evaluate the health of your jawbone to determine whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants or if additional procedures are needed.
- Treatment Planning: The plan outlines the number of implants required, the type of implants best suited for you, and the overall timeline of the procedure.
- Implant Placement: While under local anesthesia, the implant is inserted into the bone, where it acts as a new root for your artificial tooth.
- Healing Period: After the implant is placed, a healing period of several weeks to months is necessary. During this time, the implant bonds with the jawbone. Your dentist may provide a temporary crown or bridge to maintain appearance and function while you heal.
- Abutment Placement: Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, an abutment is attached to the implant. The abutment serves as a connector between the implant and the replacement tooth, ensuring a snug and secure fit.
- Placing the Crown: The final step in the dental implant process is the placement of a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture onto the abutment. This replacement tooth is designed to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth.
The dental implant process may take several months from start to finish, but the results are well worth the wait. By the end of the process, you will have a natural-looking, fully functional replacement tooth that can last for many years with proper care.
Schedule an Appointment Today with Elizabeth L. Wakim, DDS, for Dental Implants Today
At Elizabeth L. Wakim, DDS, we are committed to offering a seamless dental implant experience tailored to meet your specific needs. Our team utilizes cutting-edge technology, such as 3D imaging, to ensure precision, safety, and optimal results. With our skills in handling diverse implant cases, including complex procedures like zygomatic and mini implants, we aim to restore not only your smile but also your confidence and comfort.
From the initial consultation to the final placement of your new tooth, we prioritize your comfort every step of the way. With years of experience and a personalized approach, we’re here to guide you through the implant process with care. Contact us at (724) 225-5070 or visit our contact form to schedule your consultation today!
Common Questions
Dental implants are versatile dental devices that serve multiple functions, making them a popular choice for restorative dentistry. They are designed to replace missing teeth by providing a secure anchor for dentures or as an artificial root for individual tooth replacement.
Implants consist of a titanium post surgically implanted into the jawbone, mimicking the function of a natural tooth root. This integration with the jawbone provides stability and strength, allowing for long-term durability and improved oral function.
Once the implant is securely placed, an abutment and crown can be attached to the artificial root. This combination creates a natural-looking and functional replacement tooth that blends with the surrounding teeth. Alternatively, the implanted root can also be used to secure other dental prosthetics, such as bridges or implant-supported dentures.
With their ability to restore both aesthetics and functionality, dental implants offer a reliable solution for individuals seeking to improve their oral health and regain their confidence in their smile.
The dental implant procedure involves two steps: surgery and restoration.
During the surgical portion of the procedure, the dentist inserts the titanium rod or rods into the jaw bone. Through osseointegration, the implant fuses with the bone and becomes an extremely secure base for crowns, bridges, or dentures. Some patients may require a bone graft to ensure that there is enough support for the implant. This can be addressed during implant placement, eliminating the need for multiple surgical procedures.
The restoration portion of the procedure takes place a few weeks or months after the initial surgery. In the interim, missing teeth can be replaced with a removable flipper or temporary dentures. After the patient has healed from surgery and the implant has had the opportunity to fuse with the jaw bone sufficiently, the patient is fitted for a custom crown, bridge, or denture.
In terms of dental prosthetics, dental implants are as close as you can get to your own teeth. They should be cared for by using standard dental hygiene practices and continuing to visit your dentist for regular check-ups and teeth cleaning. For patients with dental implants, failure to maintain proper oral hygiene can result in bacteria that cause swelling, jaw bone recession, and other problems.
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