Dental implants offer a surgical solution for individuals who have lost teeth, allowing them to regain a sense of normalcy in their lives. These implants closely resemble natural teeth in both look and feel, making them the preferred choice among various cosmetic dentistry procedures. Our dentist in North Syracuse at Mahar Dental is ready to provide professional dental implant services to our patients in need.
What are Dental Implants?
In essence, dental implants serve as artificial tooth roots, typically made from materials like ceramic and titanium, which are surgically placed into the jawbone. Once implanted, they act as sturdy anchors for replacement teeth. One significant advantage of dental implants is their ability to prevent jawbone weakening.
When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone may weaken over time due to lack of stimulation. Implants simulate natural tooth roots, helping to maintain the strength and health of the jawbone.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Here are some key advantages of dental implants:
Support Speaking and Chewing
Implants provide more natural speaking and chewing capabilities compared to traditional dentures or bridges. They help maintain speech patterns and fill gaps caused by missing teeth, ensuring proper airflow during speech.Improve Natural Appearance and Comfort
As artificial tooth roots, dental implants allow for the placement of crowns that closely resemble natural teeth. This results in a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing solution for tooth replacement. Studies have shown high patient satisfaction with the appearance of dental implants.Preserve Adjacent Teeth
By preventing adjacent teeth from shifting into the gap left by a missing tooth, implants help maintain the alignment and health of surrounding teeth.Restore Facial Appearance
The loss of teeth can lead to jawbone loss, which can alter facial features and affect overall appearance. Dental implants preserve the structural integrity of the jawbone, preventing bone loss and preserving facial aesthetics.Dental Implant Procedure
The dental implant procedure follows specific steps to ensure its success, with the process varying in duration based on patient needs.
Assessment and Preparation
The initial phase involves assessing and preparing the patient for the procedure, which may include tooth extraction or evaluating jawbone suitability.In cases of inadequate jawbone, a bone grafting procedure using synthetic or natural grafts may be required.
Implant Placement
The implant is placed by exposing the jawbone and inserting a metal rod (screw) into it to serve as the tooth root. Depending on implant location, a temporary removable solution may be placed for the front teeth or left open for the back teeth.Integration and Healing
The implant undergoes integration with the jawbone, typically taking several months, to ensure sufficient strength to support a dental crown or artificial tooth.Abutment Placement
Once fully healed, the abutment is placed, involving making an incision in the gum to expose the implant and attaching the abutment to extend it above the gums, initiating another healing phase.Crown Placement
Following gum healing, the final step involves placing the artificial tooth or crown, fabricated to resemble natural teeth closely, on the abutment.
Dental Implant FAQ
What is the Benefit of Dental Implants vs. Dentures?
Compared to dentures, dental implants offer superior stability and comfort. While dentures may shift during eating or speaking, implants remain firmly anchored in the jawbone, providing stability and confidence in everyday activities. Moreover, implants contribute to maintaining the overall health of the jawbone. When a tooth is lost, adjacent teeth may shift, affecting bite and chewing functions. Dental implants fill the gap, preventing neighboring teeth from moving and ensuring their continued health.What Are the Components of a Dental Implant?
A dental implant comprises three primary components: the implant body or screw, the abutment, and the crown. The implant body, also known as the screw, serves as the artificial root of the replaced tooth, securing the replacement tooth or teeth in place.This involves a surgical procedure for placement, followed by a healing period of three to six months. Next is the abutment, which connects the implant to the crown. Once the surgical site has adequately healed, the abutment is attached to the implant through a partial opening of the gum, also performed surgically. Finally, the crown is the false tooth or teeth affixed onto the abutment after full gum healing.
Typically made from porcelain to match the natural tooth color, some individuals may opt for a differently colored crown for aesthetic purposes.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants have a lifespan of at least 10 years and can last a lifetime with proper care and regular dental check-ups.Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?
Most individuals who have lost one, several, or all of their teeth are eligible candidates for dental implants, provided they are healthy enough for tooth extraction or a root canal. High standards of hygiene are essential during and after the process. Generally, candidates should have good overall health and sufficient jawbone structure.Schedule a Consultation Today!
Contact Mahar Dental at (315) 766-2770 today to schedule your appointment!
