Dental Implants
The Modern Solution for Missing Teeth
Dental implants can replace missing teeth caused by accident, injury, or disease.
Tooth loss resulting in an incomplete smile may damage your self esteem and cause oral health problems. Missing teeth pose a more serious risk than just cosmetic aesthetics. Without a replacement tooth, the remaining teeth will start to shift and the bone can begin deteriorating and potentially cause additional tooth loss.
Dental implants are an incredibly stable and reliable solution for missing teeth. Studies show that dental implants have a 95 percent success rate in most cases. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root which acts as an anchor for replacement teeth. Shaped like a screw, it is surgically placed into the jawbone to secure a replacement tooth or bridge in place. Stable and permanent, implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support. They are an ideal tooth replacement procedure because they look and feel like natural teeth.
Implants are great for patients who are unable or unwilling to wear dentures. Instead, the dentist will place the implant directly into the jawbone to support permanently cemented bridges. Implants are usually made of titanium allowing compatiblity with body tissue. When surgically anchored into the jawbone, the implant fuses with living bone in a process known as “osseointegration”. After the bone heals around the implant, usually in three to six months, your doctor will place a permanent crown over the post to complete your smile restoration.
FAQs About Dental Implants
We have provided a short list of the most common questions we get from patients about dental implants. Please contact Floss for a consultation if you would like to further discuss implants, implants vs. dentures, or any other dental concern.
Do I really need to replace one tooth?
A missing tooth leaves a gap in your smile, which can make you feel self conscious about your appearance. In addition to appearance, even one missing tooth can damage your oral health by causing other oral health problems, such as shifting teeth or bone loss. Dental implants are customizable enough to replace just one tooth or a fully edentulous mouth, giving you back a full and healthy smile.
Am I a candidate for implants?
The most successful candidates for implant placement, need to be in good overall health, have generally good dental health, and sufficient bone structure. Dr. Holloway will perform a full evaluation to determine if dental implants are a good solution based on your health and dental goals.
How do I care for my implants?
You will care for your implants just like you would your natural teeth. Brush at least twice a day, floss or Waterpic at least once a day, and schedule routine checkups and hygiene appointments with Floss. Routine care will ensure successful implants and a lasting, beautiful smile.
What are implant-supported dentures?
If you are not a candidate for dental implants to replace all your teeth, Doc may recommend implant-supported dentures, which will create a more secure situation with your dental appliance. With implant-supported dentures, several titanium posts are placed in your jaw bone so that the denture can snap on to the implants, reducing slippage and improving comfort as well as chewing abilities.
