Making Awesome Smiles

What are dental implants? 

Dental implants are advanced dental restorations used to replace missing teeth by surgically embedding titanium posts into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. They provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth that closely mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth. Dental implants are considered a long-term solution for tooth loss and offer numerous benefits, including improved oral health, enhanced chewing ability, speech clarity, and aesthetics.

Schedule a Consultation!

 

What is the process for receiving dental implants?

The process of placing dental implants typically involves several steps and may require collaboration between a dentist or oral surgeon and a prosthodontist or restorative dentist. During the initial consultation, the dentist evaluates the patient's oral health, including the condition of the jawbone and surrounding teeth, and discusses treatment options. X-rays or CT scans may be taken to assess bone density and determine the optimal placement of the implants.

Are dental implants stable?

Dental implants are titanium posts surgically implanted into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. They serve as artificial tooth roots, providing a stable foundation for custom-made crowns, bridges, or dentures that closely resemble natural teeth in function and appearance. The implant process involves evaluation, implant placement, osseointegration, placement of abutments, and attachment of prosthetic teeth. Dental implants offer numerous benefits, including improved oral health, enhanced chewing ability, speech clarity, and aesthetics, making them a popular and effective long-term solution for tooth loss.

What is immediate load?

Immediate load refers to a dental procedure where a temporary crown or bridge is placed on a dental implant right after the implant is surgically inserted. This approach allows patients to have a functional and aesthetically pleasing tooth immediately, rather than waiting several months for the implant to integrate with the jawbone before placing the permanent restoration. Immediate load is suitable for patients with sufficient bone density and stability in the implant site. It offers the advantage of reduced treatment time and quicker restoration of appearance and function, enhancing patient satisfaction and convenience.

 

Can smokers gets dental implants?

Non-smokers are generally better candidates, as smoking can impede the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure. Individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease need to be carefully evaluated, as these conditions can affect healing and integration of the implant.

Overall, a thorough assessment by a dental professional, including a detailed medical and dental history, X-rays, and sometimes CT scans, is necessary to determine if a person is a suitable candidate for dental implants.

What are the best makes of dental implants?

Several companies are renowned for producing high-quality dental implants, known for their durability, reliability, and success rates. Some of the best makes of dental implants include:

  1. Straumann: Straumann is a Swiss company recognized for its innovation and research in implant dentistry. 

  2. Nobel Biocare: Nobel Biocare, a leader in the field, offers a wide range of implant systems suitable for various clinical situations. 

  3. Zimmer Biomet: Zimmer Biomet provides a comprehensive range of dental implants and related products. 

  4. Dentsply Sirona: Dentsply Sirona offers a variety of implant options, known for their reliability and compatibility with a range of prosthetic solutions

  5. BioHorizons: BioHorizons is known for its Laser-Lok microchannel surface technology, which enhances soft tissue attachment and bone integration

Choosing the best dental implant brand depends on the specific needs of the patient and the dentist's experience with the system. Consulting with a dental professional can help determine the most suitable option for individual cases.

 

 

What is osseointegration and why is it important?

 Osseointegration is the process of bonding tiatanium from the implant to the bone. The process takes time and can sometimes fail depending on certain factors. After osseointegration is complete and the implants have become securely integrated with the jawbone, abutments are placed on top of the implants. Abutments are small connectors that protrude through the gums and serve as attachment points for the prosthetic teeth. Impressions or digital scans of the abutments and surrounding teeth are taken to create custom-made crowns, bridges, or dentures that will be attached to the implants.

 

When is the prosthesis (crown) added?

The final phase of the dental implant process involves the placement of the prosthetic teeth. The custom-made crowns, bridges, or dentures are securely attached to the abutments, creating a natural-looking and functional smile. The prosthetic teeth are carefully adjusted to ensure proper bite alignment, comfort, and aesthetics. Once in place, dental implants function and feel like natural teeth, allowing patients to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional tooth replacement options, such as bridges or dentures. Unlike removable dentures, implants are fixed in place and do not require adhesives. They also help preserve bone density in the jawbone, preventing the deterioration that can occur with missing teeth. Implants do not rely on adjacent teeth for support, which helps maintain the integrity of natural teeth. With proper care, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, dental implants can last for many years, providing a stable and long-lasting solution for missing teeth.

The perfect candidate for dental implants is someone who is in good overall health and has adequate bone density in the jaw to support the implant. Ideal candidates should have healthy gums and be free from periodontal disease, as the success of the implant largely depends on the condition of the surrounding tissues. Additionally, candidates should be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups to ensure the longevity of the implant.

 

 

How long should my dental implant last?

Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for missing teeth and can last 20 years or more with proper care. Their longevity depends on factors such as the quality of the implant, the skill of the dentist, the location of the implant in the mouth, and the patient’s oral hygiene practices. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking can significantly extend the lifespan of a dental implant. Many patients enjoy a lifetime of use from their dental implants, making them a durable and reliable option for tooth replacement.

 

Making Awesome Smiles

of west palm beach -

Call Today to Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation:

561-666-9691

Schedule a Consultation!