Dental Implants
Fenton’s Team for Dental Implants and Smile Restoration
Dental implants are a durable, permanent solution to tooth decay, replacing missing teeth or weakened bone structure with metal fittings and natural-looking tooth replacements blended to your remaining teeth.
Before development of dental implants, dentures were the only alternative to replacing a missing tooth or teeth. Dental implants go deeper into the jaw so there are no removable parts, external cleaning, or other maintenance to worry about that came with traditional dentures. A permanent implant is like getting a new “root” for your tooth if injury or disease has made your own roots unstable or too weak to support the tooth. With a permanent metal “root” in place, your dentist can fit a dental crown over the top, the same color and shape as your surrounding teeth, so that you can chew, speak, and smile for the camera with the same amount of confidence.
The Process of Getting an Implant
Implants are usually made of a synthetic yet biocompatible material like metal or ceramic. These synthetic structures are placed in the area of the tooth normally occupied by the root. Implants are anchored to the jawbone or metal framework on the bone and act as a foundation for an artificial tooth or permanent bridge. In some cases, implants can be used to attach dentures.
Surgery is necessary to prepare the area for an implant and place the implant in the mouth. Following the procedure, a short healing period of time is required for the implant to take hold and for bone tissue to build up and anchor the device. In some cases, metal posts are inserted into the implant during a follow-up procedure to connect the tooth. Because implants require surgery, patients are administered anesthesia and, if necessary, antibiotics to prevent infection post-surgery.
Well-Designed Implants
Not everyone is a candidate for a dental implant, however. For a successful implant to take hold, a candidate must have proper bone density and have a strong immune system. Your initial consultation visit to Brookwood Dental Center will include time to assess whether your mouth and jaw can support a dental implant, or if another treatment option is in your best interest for a healthy smile. If we do proceed with an implant, the end result is so well-designed that your implants will mimic the look and feel of your natural teeth—you may forget they’re there!
How to Care for Dental Implants
Like any restoration, implants require diligent oral hygiene and proper care to ensure they last a long time. You can prevent future infection and decay of your remaining teeth, as well, by brushing two to three times per day and flossing once a day. In this sense, you’ll care for your dental implants in exactly the same way as your natural teeth—with great oral hygiene that will extend your smile through all stages of life! The team at Brookwood Dental Center is happy to examine and recommend the proper course of action to help you regain your confidence. Reach out to our office by calling 636-349-1070 at your earliest convenience!