Dental implants are now a game-changer in the field of restorative dentistry and replacing teeth. They offer a natural-looking and functional replacement for missing teeth. It is important that we provide our patients with the most reliable and long-last solution for missing teeth. Creekside Dental can create a custom plan to replace your teeth with dental implants in Flint, TX.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Once they fuse to the bone, they serve as a foundation for replacement teeth. These small, titanium posts will essentially replace the missing tooth roots as well. With dental implants, we can place a dental restoration that is more sturdy and stronger than your traditional tooth replacement options.
The Dental Implant Process Involves Several Steps
- Initial Consultation and Evaluation: During this stage, your Creekside Dental dentist will assess your oral health, take X-rays, and discuss your treatment options. It is vital to be in good oral health and have enough bone density to support the teeth implants.
- Surgical Placement of the Implant: In this procedure, the dentist will carefully insert the implant into the jawbone. We will leave the area alone for several months while the implant integrates with the bone and the soft tissues heal from surgery.
- Abutment Placement: Once the implant fuses to the bone, your dentist will attach a tiny connector piece called an abutment to the implant. Abutments serve as the foundation for the final restoration.
- Restoration Placement: During the final step, your dentist will place the artificial tooth (crown, bridge, or denture) onto the abutment. Once your new false teeth are secure, you smile will be whole and can function normally.
Types of Dental Implants
There are three types of dental implants, each one catering to different needs and situations. During your consultation, your dental team will determine the best type of implant for you.
Endosteal Implants
The most common type of dental implants is endosteal implants. The dentist will surgically insert this type of implant directly into the jawbone, providing a secure and stable foundation for the replacement tooth.
Subperiosteal Implants
If your jawbone has significant deterioration, we can use subperiosteal implants. This type of implant placed on top of the jawbone, with the metal framework protruding through the gum to hold the replacement tooth.
Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants are specialized implants that we anchor in the zygomatic (cheekbone) area. This type of implant is best for patients with insufficient jawbone density or volume for conventional implants.
Advantages of Dental Implants Over Other Tooth Replacement Options
Dental implants offer multiple advantages over the traditional tooth replacement options, like dentures or bridges. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Natural Appearance and Function: Dental implant restorations will function, look, and feel like real teeth. They provide a seamless and comfortable tooth replacement option.
- Improved Oral Health: Dental bridges require the grinding down of adjacent teeth. However, dental implants preserve the integrity of surrounding natural teeth, promoting better overall oral health.
- Durability and Longevity: Your new dental implant restoration will last for many decades. However, you need to take excellent care of your dental health and maintain your new teeth. Dental implants are an investment in your oral health.
- Preservation of Jawbone: Dental implants stimulate the bone in the jaw. This stimulation prevents the bone loss that often occurs after tooth loss, which can lead to a sunken facial appearance.
- Improved Speech and Eating Ability: Unlike dentures, which can slip or move around, dental implants are securely anchored, allowing for clear speech and unrestricted eating ability.
Common Issues with Dental Implants and How You Can Prevent Them
Dental implants are generally safe and successful for the most part. However, there are some potential problems that can arise. We want to make sure you aware of these issues so you can avoid them if possible. Here are some common issues and how to prevent them:
- Implant Failure: An implant can fail if the implants do not fuse to the bone properly, there is excessive loading, or if an infection develops. Please follow all the instructions your dentist give you for proper oral hygiene, avoid excessive force on the implant, and attend regular check-ups to avoid implant failure.
- Peri-implantitis: This inflammatory condition affects the tissues around the implant. It is possible for peri-implantitis to lead to bone loss and implant failure. Maintaining your oral hygiene, avoiding smoking, and attending regular dental check-ups will prevent peri-implantitis.
- Nerve Damage: In rare cases, the implant placement procedure can cause temporary or permanent nerve damage. We will take every precaution to reduce this risk, such as careful planning and using specialized techniques.
- Sinus Issues: Dental implants in the upper jaw have a risk of creating sinus complications if the implant protrudes into the sinus cavity. Your dentist may recommend a sinus lift to create enough bone volume and prevent sinus issues.