Dental Implants

Dental implants are known for providing a long lasting and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth. They are designed to restore functionality to your smile just like your natural teeth would. They provide stability, comfort, and a complete smile.
Contact our dental team today to get started on the dental implant treatment, the types available, the procedure involved, and the benefits of choosing dental implants for tooth replacement.
What Are Dental Implants?
Using titanium rods and surgically bonding them to the jawbone, dental implants replicate a root-like function creating a strong foundation for a dental accessory, crown, bridge, or denture to be secured on top. This whole process is designed to mimic the look, feel, and function of natural teeth to give you seamless and sturdy results that improve your quality of life.
Types of Dental Implants
Depending on your dental and cosmetic needs, there are different types of dental implants. Understanding the options available can help you make an informed decision about the right solution for your situation.
Dental Implants
This is the most common type of dental implant. They are placed directly into the jawbone and can support one or more replacement teeth.
All-on-4® Treatment Concept Implants
This treatment concept allows for the placement of a full arch of replacement teeth using only four implants. This technique is beneficial for patients with significant tooth loss or bone density issues.
The All-on-4® treatment concept provides immediate function, meaning you can leave the dental office with a full set of teeth on the same day as the implant surgery. By using only four implants to support an entire arch, this method is more cost-effective than placing individual implants for each missing tooth.
Schedule a consultation with us today to figure out which dental implant type is right for your smile!
The Dental Implant Procedure
The process of getting dental implants involves several steps, each designed to ensure the outcome you desire and that will be a good solution to your missing tooth problem. You can expect:
Initial Consultation and Planning
With any dental treatment, it will start in the planning stage. The dentist will evaluate your smile and decide the next steps with you.
- Comprehensive Exam: This may include X-rays or 3D imaging to see the condition of your jawbone and find the right placement for the implants.
- Treatment Plan: The exam will allow the dentist to develop a personalized treatment plan that outlines the type of implants, the number of implants needed, and any additional procedures required, such as bone grafting.
Bone Grafting (if necessary)
If your jawbone is not strong enough to support a dental implant or has already seen jawbone shrinkage due to missing teeth, then bone grafting may become necessary. This procedure will add bone or bone-like material to the jaw, providing a stable foundation for the implant.
- Autograft: This is when bone is taken from another area of your body and grafted onto the jawbone.
- Allograft or Xenograft: The bone material is sourced from a donor or animal and used to build up the jawbone.
Implant Placement
Once the jawbone and everything is prepped, the dental implant can be placed.
- Procedure: The process consists of creating a small incision in the gum to expose the jawbone, then the implant will be placed and bonded to the jawbone. Lastly, the gum is stitched closed.
- Healing Period: After the implant is placed, a healing period of several months is typically required for osseointegration, to ensure a secure and stable result.
Abutment Placement
This is a small connector that allows the implant to attach to the dental accessory or replacement tooth.
Placement of the Replacement Tooth
The final step in the dental implant process is the placement of the replacement tooth or teeth.
- Dental Accessory: A custom-made crown, bridge, or denture that matches the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth is created and attached to the abutment.
Final Adjustments
Your dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure the replacement tooth fits comfortably and functions properly.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer numerous advantages over other tooth replacement options, making them a popular choice for restoring missing teeth such as:
- Long-Term Durability
- Strength and Stability
- Low Maintenance
- Natural Appearance and Function
- Aesthetic Appeal
- Enhanced Function
- Bone Preservation
- Prevented Bone Loss
- Supported Facial Structure
- Improved Oral Health
- No Damage to Adjacent Teeth
- Easier Oral Hygiene
There are many significant benefits to the appearance of your smile including slowing down the aging process. When your jawbone is stimulated and strong from the implants, you will experience less facial wrinkles and will not have to worry about the deterioration of the jaw which creates a gummy look.
Get Dental Implants for a Lifetime Solution for Your Beautiful Smile
Dental implants offer a permanent, reliable, and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth. They will restore function, preserve bone, and enhance your smile and are an investment in your long-term oral health and overall well-being.
If you’re considering dental implants, consult with our dentist at Crete Smiles to explore the options available and take the first step towards a healthier, more confident smile.