Do you have missing teeth and need to restore your smile? Maybe you already have a restoration but can’t eat the foods you want, and it’s hard to speak clearly. Dental implants are the premier restorative dentistry treatments for patients missing one or more teeth. They can secure single dental crowns, dental bridges, or dentures.
Dr. Anthony Yaldo offers restorations that use dental implants in Keego Harbor, MI at his advanced dental office. Dental implants can support single missing teeth or bridges and dentures that replace all the teeth in the smile.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a metal post that acts as an artificial tooth root. Typically made from titanium, teeth implants are highly compatible with human bone. Once a dentist surgically places it in the jawbone, it will eventually fuse to the bone over time. These titanium posts provide a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth.
There are two other parts that make up an implant restoration. The abutment is tiny connector piece that your dentist will attach to the implant post once it fuses to the bone. This vital piece will help secure the implant post to the dental restoration.
The actual part that replaces the crown portion of your teeth is the dental restoration. There are three main types of dental restorations. The type you need depends on the location of your missing teeth and how many you are missing.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Implants offer many advantages for patients missing permanent teeth. Dental implants can improve:
- Bite Function: With implant-supported restorations, patients can bite and chew normally. Missing teeth and gaps in the smile create an uneven bite, making eating difficult or uncomfortable. An uneven bite can also place more pressure on the jaw or TMJ. Replacing missing teeth creates an even bite, allowing patients to eat the foods they love with fewer restrictions.
- Bone Support: Because dental implants fuse with the jaw bone, they support the bone tissue. Missing teeth leave gaps in the smile and abandon support to the underlying bone tissue. Implant posts renew this support and help create a stable foundation at the tooth root.
- Aesthetics: Implants improve the look of the smile and the jaw. Many patients with multiple missing teeth lose support in their jaw bone, meaning they can experience facial sagging. Implants support the jaw and help reverse sagging. Dental implants can also fill gaps left by missing teeth to create a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
- Preserves Surrounding Teeth: Implants are a convenient option as they do not require any alterations to the adjacent teeth, unlike bridges. They are a standalone solution, providing a secure and stable foundation for your replacement teeth.
- Long-Lasting Solution: Implants are known for their durability and longevity. With proper care, they can last a lifetime, providing a permanent solution for missing teeth. Unlike other restorations that may need replacement over time, implants offer a long-term investment in your oral health.
Dental Implants in Keego Harbor, MI
Dr. Yaldo works with local implant surgeons to place dental implants. Dental X-rays will be required to help plan treatment and to help the oral surgeons determine the best implant placement to optimize bone tissue. Some patients may require bone grafting treatment before they receive implants if they have lost sufficient bone tissue.
Bone grating supplies healthy bone tissue where needed so the implants can properly fuse with the jaw bone. Dr. Yaldo will also ensure that patients do not have any outstanding dental problems like gum disease or cavities to prevent problems during the implant process.
The Dental Implant Process
An oral surgeon places the titanium implant posts in the jaw bone beneath the gums. Over a period of three to six months, the posts will fuse with the jaw bone. This process is called osseointegration.
Then, Dr. Yaldo will restore the implants with a dental crown, dental bridge, or denture. He will take impressions to ensure that the restorations match the color and size of adjacent teeth or the patient’s desired look.
Finally, once the implants have healed and the permanent restorations are complete, Dr. Yaldo will attach the permanent restorations to the implants.
Dental Implants FAQs
Teeth implants are a popular way to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. They are also the most effective. We understand that you may have lots of questions about this type of dental restoration. We have put together the answers to the most frequently asked questions about dental implants. We hope this section helps you decide if this treatment is right for you.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
You might be a good candidate for dental implants if you have missing teeth and are in good overall health. Dr. Yaldo will assess your oral health, bone density, and any underlying medical conditions to determine if implants are suitable for you. If you have sufficient bone structure and maintain good dental health, dental implants can be a great long-term solution to restore your smile and improve your oral health.
What are the disadvantages of dental implants?
While dental implants offer many benefits, there are a few drawback you should know about. The process to get this type of tooth replacement is more invasive and requires multiple visits to the dentist. It is typically more expensive compared to other tooth replacement options. Since it requires surgery, some people may experience discomfort or swelling during the healing process.
What is the success rate of dental implants?
Dental implants have a high success rate, with a long-term success rate of over 95%. This impressive success rate is to advancements in dental technology and expert dental dental professionals. With good care and maintenance, dental implants can provide a long-lasting solution for missing teeth.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are the only long-lasting solution for missing teeth. In most cases, the implant posts will last forever. However, this does require proper oral care and maintenance. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are essential to ensure the longevity of your dental implants and maintain a healthy smile.
Do I need a bone graft before getting dental implants?
A bone graft might be necessary before dental implants if you have severe bone loss in your jaw. The implant posts require a strong and healthy bone structure to support it. We will assess your jawbone density and determine if you need a bone graft. This procedure is sometimes necessary to ensure the success and stability of your dental implants.
Are dental implants safe?
Yes, teeth implants are a safe and effective tooth replacement option. They have been extensively studied and used for many years. With proper planning, placement, and aftercare, dental implants provide a secure and natural-looking solution for missing teeth, improving both oral health and overall well-being.
Restore Missing Teeth Today with Dental Implants in Keego Harbor, MI
Contact Orchard Lake Dental Care for restorative dental treatment today at (248) 780-7062. You may also request a dental appointment with us online. Orchard Lake Dental Care serves patients from the Orchard Lake Village area.