Dental implants can be the best, most convenient solution for replacing missing teeth. Dental implants also provide a fixed solution for removable dental partials or complete dentures. Implant dentistry provides excellent stability and support for dental appliances. Even the best denture adhesives can’t compare to the stability achieved with dental implants.
Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth usually made out of titanium cylinders. They are placed in the upper or lower jaw. Bone grows around the tooth implant to make it as secure as your natural teeth. Dental bridges are used to replace multiple missing teeth. Today’s dental implants are virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
Tooth implants are very durable, strong and stable and will last many years. But occasionally they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.
Tooth Implant Process
Getting dental implants requires a number of visits to our office over several months. X-rays and impressions are first taken of your jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue and spacing available for your tooth implant. During a later visit, your mouth will be numbed and the implant will be surgically placed into the bone. Implant dentistry requires a healing period of up to six month to allow the tooth implant to anchor itself into the bone and heal. The bone tissue will need time to build up and firmly anchor to the implant device. Some types of dental implants will require a second surgery to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. Other types of dental implants allow the post and anchor to be placed at the same time.
After several weeks of healing, your artificial teeth will be custom made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. This step may take one to two months to complete because several fittings may be required. After a final healing period, your artificial teeth will be securely attached to the implants and you will be able to enjoy the excellent stability and comfort of your new dental implant.
You will receive care instructions when your tooth implant treatment is complete. Good oral hygiene, eathing habits, and regular visits to our office will lengthen the life of your new implant.
Reasons for dental implants include:
- Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth
- Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space
- Restore patient’s confident smile
- Restore speech, chewing and digestion
- Restore or enhance facial tissues
- Support a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable
Koch Park Dental can both place and restore dental implants. We also offer the All-On-4 (teeth in a day) and other implant supported dentures. Contact us to find out if you might be a good candidate for dental implants if you are in the St Louis – Hazelwood area.
For more detailed information about our dental implants, please visit our tooth implant dentistry website!
