Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures.  Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.

Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone.  The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!

Dental implants are very strong, stable, and durable and will last many years, but on occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.

Reasons for dental implants:

• Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
• Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
• Restore a patient’s confident smile.
• Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.
• Restore or enhance facial tissues.
• Support a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable.

What does getting dental implants involve?

The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.

Initially, a 3D image is taken using our 3D imaging x-ray machine to evaluate your jaw, bone, gum tissue, and spacing to be sure you are good candidate for an implant. 

If you are, an appointment would be made to place the implant.  This procedure is usually done while under a short-acting general anesthetic.  The implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself onto the bone for up to six months.  Once this is accomplished, a second surgery is done in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. 

Once this is done you would return so the new artificial teeth are fitted to the post portion of the anchor. 

You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed.  Good oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new implant.