What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants consist of a replacement tooth and a titanium rod that’s inserted into the jawbone to secure it. Replacement teeth are usually made of some kind of porcelain such as zirconia, leucite, or lithium disilicate – all of which look very much like natural teeth due to the coloration and the way light is diffused. Dental implants are permanent and stay in the mouth, so you can care for them just like natural teeth.
Can Anyone Get Them?
It’s critical for patients to have healthy, strong jaw bones and gums to avoid complications and ensure that there’s enough support for the titanium rod that forms the base of the implant. For this reason, some patients may need procedures like sinus augmentation, ridge modification, or bone grafts before they’re candidates for implants.
Why Get Dental Implants?
Dentures can be problematic, slipping while you talk and limiting your ability to eat certain foods. Bridges and crowns are more permanent solutions, but these are sometimes uncomfortable and often stand out against natural teeth. Implants tend to last longer than other solutions and fit better, increasing comfort and appearance.
Types of Dental Implants
There are two types of dental implants: endosteal and subperiosteal. For endosteal implants, the titanium rods are placed directly in the bone, posts are connected after the gums have healed, and artificial teeth are attached later. For subperiosteal implants, the titanium rods are placed on top of the jaw with the posts sticking up through the gums to hold the artificial teeth.
Getting Dental Implants Placed
Dental implant procedures may be a little different for each patient depending on oral health and specific issues. The procedure is usually done in two to three visits over the course of anywhere from three to nine months or longer. After preparing the jaw bone and placing the post, the patient may need up to a few months to heal. Then the abutment, or post extension is placed, and the crown is attached.
Types of Dental Implants
There are two types of dental implants: endosteal and subperiosteal. For endosteal implants, the titanium rods are placed directly in the bone, posts are connected after the gums have healed, and artificial teeth are attached later. For subperiosteal implants, the titanium rods are placed on top of the jaw with the posts sticking up through the gums to hold the artificial teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can all of my teeth be replaced with dental implants?
Yes, all of your teeth can be replaced with dental implants.
Am I a good candidate for a dental implant?
If you’re missing at least a single tooth all the way up to all of your teeth, you’re definitely a good candidate for a dental implant.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last as long as you take good care of them. Luckily, they’re not susceptible to dental disease or decay like your natural teeth, but your gum health is still vital for the success of your implant. Keep good care of your gums and your implants will last.
Can you remove dental implants?
Unlike dentures, you can’t remove implants from your mouth. This is good as it allows for a look and feel that is significantly closer to natural teeth.
Are dental implants painful?
No, dental implants won’t be painful because the procedure is typically administered under anesthesia.
How long does a dental implant take to be implanted?
Our office can normally be done with the procedure in less than an hour, but it depends on the placement and number of implants.
Our Doctors
Meet our Family of Dentists
Dr. Standish has been serving Clay County patients at Eagle Harbor Dental for over 30 years. His daughters Dr. Kelly & Dr. Erin joined the practice and they’ve been creating beautiful smiles as a family ever since. With extensive educations and memberships, our dentists are the best that Fleming Island has to offer.
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