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 by a dentist or Periodontist – a specialist of the gums and supporting bone. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!
Dental implants are strong and durable and will last many years. On occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.
Dental implants are a revolutionary advancement in the realm of general dentistry, offering a permanent solution for those missing one or more teeth. At Sisko Dentistry, we provide our patients with a thorough understanding of this transformative treatment, helping to restore not just the smile but also the overall functionality of their mouth.
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 it more secure and comfortable.
Recognizing the Need for Dental Implants
Signs you may benefit from dental implants include:
- Missing one or more teeth
- Difficulty chewing due to tooth loss
- A noticeable gap in your smile
- Dentures that feel uncomfortable or unstable
- Bone loss in the jaw area
Understanding the Importance of Dental Implants
Dental implants are not just about aesthetics; they serve functional necessities. Tooth loss can interfere with proper chewing, impact speech, and result in bone loss. By opting for implants, patients can prevent these complications. Moreover, implants provide a more stable, durable, and long-lasting alternative to dentures or bridges, integrating seamlessly with the jawbone. Given their structural support, dental implants are instrumental in preserving facial contours and preventing the sagging appearance often associated with tooth loss.
Embarking on the Treatment Journey
The process of getting dental implants can be detailed, but it’s streamlined into clear steps:
- Consultation and Planning: A thorough examination and discussion with our doctor to determine if you’re an ideal candidate.
- Bone Grafting (if needed): In cases of insufficient bone volume, grafting ensures a solid base for the implant.
- Implant Placement: A titanium post is surgically inserted into the jawbone as the new tooth root.
- Osseointegration: A healing period during which the implant fuses with the bone, ensuring stability.
- Crown Placement: Once healed, a custom-made crown is attached, mirroring the look and function of a natural tooth.
Guarding Your Investment
Ensuring the longevity of your dental implants is essential:
- Maintain rigorous oral hygiene routines.
- Regular dental check-ups for professional cleanings and examinations.
- Avoid applying extreme pressure or biting hard objects.
- Refrain from habits like smoking, which can impede healing and decrease implant lifespan.
What does getting dental implants involve?
The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.
X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself for up to six months. Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. With other implants the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time.
After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete. After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.
You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene and eating habits, alongside regular dental visits, will aid in the life of your new implant.
Anticipating the Future
The allure of dental implants is deeply rooted in their enduring strength and functionality. With meticulous care, these implants have the potential to serve you for a lifetime, seamlessly integrating as a natural extension of oneself. The restoration they bring, in terms of a radiant smile and the regained capacity to eat and communicate without restraint, instills a profound sense of confidence.
However, the journey with dental implants doesn’t end post-procedure. Their longevity, while impressive, is maximized through consistent care. Regular check-ups at Sisko Dentistry play a pivotal role in this, allowing early detection and rectification of any minor issues, ensuring that the high success rate of dental implants is maintained throughout their lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lifespan of dental implants?
Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and regular dental check-ups. Their durability and integration with the jawbone make them a long-lasting solution for missing teeth.
Are dental implants suitable for everyone?
Most people qualify for dental implants; however, it’s essential to have adequate bone density and be in good overall health. Our doctor at Sisko Dentistry will evaluate your specific case during the consultation.
How do dental implants compare to dentures or bridges?
Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants integrate with the jawbone, providing stability, preventing bone loss, and maintaining facial structure. They offer both aesthetic and functional benefits, making them a preferred choice for many.
Your Next Step
Dental implants have transformed the lives of countless individuals, offering them a renewed sense of purpose and confidence. If you’re in Tallmadge, OH, and are contemplating this life-changing procedure, don’t hesitate. Contact Sisko Dentistry today at (330) 633-9510 and embark on your journey towards a complete and radiant smile.