Dental implants are currently the most esthetic and functional way to replace missing teeth. They can replace single teeth, multiple teeth and even an entire arch of teeth.
Dental implants are made of a titanium material that bonds with the bone. A replacement tooth (crown) is then attached to the post.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are titanium tooth replacements that resemble the root of a natural tooth. They are placed in the jawbone to anchor artificial teeth and restore a smile that is both functional and beautiful. The implant dentist Bon Secour AL process is a team effort involving an oral surgeon who performs the surgery, a periodontist who treats the tissues that support teeth and gums, and a prosthodontist who designs and fits artificial teeth.
During dental implant surgery, the oral surgeon cuts through the gum to expose the bone. Holes are drilled into the bone to receive the metal implant post, which acts as the tooth root. A healing period is required to allow the implant to fuse to the bone (a process called osseointegration).
After dental implant surgery, patients must practice good oral hygiene to keep the gum tissue and new artificial teeth clean. They should brush at least twice daily and floss, and schedule regular dental checkups. Patients should also avoid smoking, which slows the healing process and can contribute to complications with dental implants.
Bone Grafting
Many people with missing teeth have insufficient bone to support dental implants, and in most cases, they will need a bone graft before receiving an implant dentist Bon Secour AL. The procedure involves surgically placing graft material in the jaw, where it will heal to create new bone. This process can be done at the time of a tooth extraction or in a separate surgery.
Graft material can be obtained from a tissue bank or from the patient’s body, depending on the size of the defect. The patient’s own bone contains natural growth factors that improve the likelihood of successful graft healing.
Prior to any bone graft surgery, a thorough oral exam will be performed and x-rays or CT scans will be taken to determine the condition of the jawbone. Medications will be prescribed to prevent infection and encourage bone healing. During the recovery period, patients are advised to avoid excessive exercise and follow other instructions for a safe and quick healing.
Single Stage Implants
Many people with missing teeth find traditional dentures and partials uncomfortable, unstable, or embarrassing. Single stage implants provide a more natural solution. They eliminate the need for a bridge that requires the use of adjacent healthy teeth and they allow patients to eat almost anything without fear that their implant will slip or become dislodged.
The implant is placed in the jawbone, and the gum tissue is stitched back. Over the next three to six months, your bone and implant body heal firmly together. During this time, you can wear dentures and eat soft foods.
At the end of your healing period, we will perform a minor surgery to uncover the implant and attach the abutment and prosthesis. This procedure usually takes less time than two-stage implant surgery and is much more comfortable. One-stage implants can be placed at the same time as a tooth extraction, further minimizing the number of surgical procedures you need.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Unlike traditional dental bridges, implant-supported bridges are anchored to implants surgically placed into your jawbone. This method offers unparalleled stability and durability. It can also help prevent bone atrophy by stimulating the jawbone. It can also be fabricated to look more natural and function more like your own teeth.
The first step is a consultation with a dentist or prosthodontist to determine your eligibility. During this time, they’ll evaluate your oral health & discuss your treatment goals. Then, they’ll recommend the best solution.
The second step involves placing dental implants & letting them heal. This process usually takes several months. Once the implants are healed, the dentist will place abutments & take impressions to fabricate your custom dental bridge. Finally, the bridge will be securely affixed to the abutments. Implant dentist Bon Secour AL can help patients with missing teeth replace a full row of teeth without affecting their bite and aesthetics. They also reduce the pressure on adjacent teeth, which can cause them to decay.
