Healthy teeth play an important role in our bodies. And it’s no secret that when you are missing a tooth, your jawbone breaks down, your self-esteem takes a hit, and your diet suffers. Dental implants fix all these problems by providing a teeth replacement solution that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth that consists of a titanium screw that we place in your jaw. An abutment protrudes from the implant and connects with the crown, holding it in place. The crown is the part of the implant that you can see above the gumline.
The Process of Fusing Metal with Bone
Implant teeth are made of titanium and permanently fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This effective integration of metal and bone allows for eating, chewing, and biting that feels completely natural.
Who needs dental implants?
Anyone who is missing a tooth is an excellent candidate for dental implants. Your jawbone needs to be stimulated regularly to maintain its mass. Therefore, when a tooth is extracted or falls out on its own, the jawbone begins to deteriorate almost immediately because the stimulation that chewing provides is no longer present. Studies show that bone decreases about one-quarter of its width within in a year of tooth loss. Thankfully, dental implants can take the place of natural teeth and provide the stimulus the jaw needs. If done right away, the chances that bone grafting will be required down the road is significantly fewer.
Dental Implants: The Process
01: Consultation
To get a clear picture of your oral and overall health, we begin the first phase of the dental implant process by gathering imaging and your medical and dental histories. Next, we discuss treatment options with you and make a plan that meets your needs and concerns.
02: Extraction
If need be, we extract your tooth to prepare it for dental implant surgery.
03: Bone Grafting
When a tooth has been missing for months or years, your oral surgeon will bulk up the bone at the extraction site with a bone graft. Once the bone grafting procedure has been completed, you’ll return, after several months of healing, to your oral surgeon for implant placement.
04: Dental Implant Placement
On the day of surgery, your oral surgeon administers anesthesia and ensures you’re comfortable. Once certain you are relaxed, the doctors proceed with surgery, placing a titanium post into your jawbone.
05:Waiting period
The process of the implant fusing with your jawbone takes about 3-4 months.
06:Crown Restoration
Once the process of osseointegration is complete, your oral surgeon places an abutment on the implant which connects with the final crown restoration.
Why dental implants from Sunshine Dental?
With accuracy and precision, we craft and place implant crowns. Our team will discuss options with you, as we take pride in assessing your specific needs and providing information, so you can have an active role in your dental health and decision-making.
