What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a tooth replacement option that is structured like a natural tooth. It has an artificial tooth root, which is the actual dental implant. The root is made of titanium or another material that can bond with your jawbone. This makes your implant sturdy and stable like a natural tooth.
Then the implant is topped with a restoration, such as a dental crown, which takes the place of the visible part of your tooth. Sometimes, there is a small connector between the two parts, called an abutment.
Once the dental implant is in place, it looks and functions like a natural tooth. You care for it like a natural tooth, too: brushing, flossing, and making regular dental appointments.
Dental Implant Procedure
The dental implant procedure consists of two parts: placing the implant and topping the implant with a restoration.
In the procedure of placing the dental implant, Dr. Wolfe works with oral surgeons and periodontists in the area. Using a specialist for implant placement helps ensure you get the best care. A dental implant can be placed at the time your natural tooth is removed. If not, your implant dentist will make room for the implant in your jawbone. Sometimes, the implant dentist places the implant along with bone grafting material to help build up enough strong bone to anchor the implant.
Once the surgeon places the implant, they will determine if the implant is secure enough to support a restoration. If so, then you can get a provisional dental crown placed right away. This means that many people never have to be without a tooth. Otherwise, you might have a healing cap that holds the place for your dental crown.
Once the implant is healed enough, Dr. Wolfe can place a final dental crown.
Who’s a Candidate?
Most people who have lost teeth can get dental implants. You just have to meet three standards to be a candidate. You must:
- Be missing one or more teeth
- Be an adult whose jaw has finished growing
- Be in good enough health for surgery
During your consultation and exam, we will make sure you are a candidate. If we have questions about your health, we might recommend that you consult with your doctor. In addition, you might be a good candidate, but need extra procedures before the implants, such as treatment for gum disease. Or, you might need a bone graft before you can get your dental implant.
If you are a smoker, we will ask that you quit smoking for several weeks before and after your procedure.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are the best tooth-replacement option. They:
- Look natural
- Function like natural teeth
- Are firmly fixed in your mouth
- Just need brushing, flossing, and regular checkups
- Support your gums and jawbone
- Can last a lifetime
Dental implants look and function just like natural teeth. They’re also firmly fixed in your mouth. They don’t fall out and don’t need special care: just brush, floss, and make your regular checkups.
With dental implants, your jaw bone gets the stimulation it needs to stay strong and healthy, and this helps dental implants last a lifetime with proper care. Studies show that more than 90% of dental implants last 20 years, and some people have had implants for 50 years!
Considering Dental Implants in Rochester Hills?
In your appointment with Dr. Wolfe, he will talk to you about the procedure and help you decide if implants are right for you.
