Dental Implants

What are dental implants?

Like dentures, dental implants are teeth replacements. However, dental implants are different because they're permanently fixed in your mouth whereas dentures are removable.

Dental implants include prosthetic roots and teeth, both of which are usually made from biocompatible titanium.

The crown, the tooth part of the implant, is made using a model of your mouth, which ensures a perfect fit. The crown is even colored to match your other teeth so it blends in perfectly.

Dental implants are usually permanent dental devices, although you may need to replace the crown part of the implant after years of normal wear and tear.

Am I a good dental implant candidate?

Dr. Danielewicz can perform a dental implant exam to determine whether it's the best option for you. There are two main factors to consider:

Jawbone

You need a strong and healthy jawbone to support the dental implant post. Once the dental implant post is in your jaw, a process called osseointegration, in which your dental implant post fuses with your jawbone begins.

If your jaw isn't sufficiently strong or if you don't have enough bone density, osseointegration can't occur. In some cases, patients who have lost jaw bone due to disease or injury can get bone grafts to give them the stability needed for dental implants.

Gum tissue

Just as a healthy jawbone is important for retaining the implant post, you need healthy gums free of periodontal disease to retain the implant crown. If you have periodontal disease, Dr. Danielewicz can treat it effectively so you can become a better candidate for dental implants.

In addition to bone and gum health, good overall health is important. If you have an autoimmune illness or other serious conditions, a compromised ability to heal may mean that other options like dentures may be a better fit for you.

How are dental implants placed?

Placement of your dental implant occurs at the Smile Doctors office. The exact procedure differs from patient-to-patient depending on specific needs. Dr. Danielewicz reviews your dental implant procedure before you get started.

For routine placement of a dental implant, which takes place under local or general anesthesia, Dr. Danielewicz first cuts through your gum and drills a hole into your jawbone. Then, he places the dental implant into the hole. The procedure sounds simple but can take 1-2 hours to complete.

To improve aesthetics, Dr. Danielewicz may place a temporary crown over the hole created for your implant. 

How long is the dental implant process?

Usually, the dental implant process takes at least a few months from start to finish. You'll have a healing period of a month or two after your implant post is placed, which allows osseointegration to occur before you finally get the permanent crown.

Dental implants look and feel so natural that most don't even suspect they're artificial. Use the online scheduler or call Smile Doctors to arrange your dental implant consultation now.