What is a Dental Implant?
Dental Implants are screw-like anchors or posts that replace the natural roots of a tooth. Dental implant surgery is a procedure that replaces tooth roots with those posts and replaces damaged or missing teeth with artificial teeth that look and function just like real ones. Dental implants can also assist with securing dentures and bridgework when natural options do not provide enough support. Unlike dentures, implants and crowns are not removed overnight and do not need any adhesion to hold them in place.
How dental implant surgery is performed depends on two major factors: the type of implant and the condition of your jawbone. The major benefit of implants is solid support for your new teeth. The process requires the bone to heal tightly around the implant. Because this bone healing requires time, the process can take many weeks or months to complete.
The Dental Implant Process
Treatment is usually done in a 3 stage process over several months.
Step 1
Dr. Wolter will surgically place the implant in the jaw. A screw is inserted into the implant to prevent gum tissue and other debris from contaminating the site. The gum is then secured over the implant and allowed to heal. The healing and fusing process is usually between 3 and 6 months. This allows the implant to fuse with the jaw bone; the process is called osseointegration.
While your jaw and gums are healing, we advise that you stick to a soft foods diet, remembering that temperature sensitivity may also cause some discomfort. Any inflammation is usually taken care of with over-the-counter medication.
Step 2
The second step has some variables, but generally, the implant is uncovered, and a post is attached to the implant. This will serve as the foundation for the crown that will be placed over the implant.
Step 3
Dr. Wolter will make the crown that has the correct shape, size, and color to fit among the rest of your teeth. Once the crown is ready, it is attached to the implant and post permanently and is ready to be used just like any other tooth.
Why it’s done?
Dental implants are surgically placed where they serve as the roots of missing teeth. Because the titanium in the implants fuses with your jawbone, the implants won’t slip or cause bone damage the way fixed bridgework or dentures might. One big benefit is that the artificial materials can’t decay like your own teeth that support regular bridgework.
Dental implants may be right for you if you:
- Have one or more missing teeth
- Have adequate bone to secure the implants or are eligible to have a bone graft
- Have healthy oral tissues
- Do not have any underlying conditions that would affect bone healing
- Are unable to wear dentures
- Do not smoke
Dr. Wolter and the wonderful team at Wolter Advanced Medical Care will go over all options for tooth and bridge replacements. If you are a good candidate for tooth implants, our staff will provide the utmost care to ensure that you have a great experience while we restore your teeth for a lifelong beautiful and healthy smile. For more information, call or visit our office, or click here to request a FREE report on implants.
