Dental Implants are the most reliable and long-lasting replacement option for missing teeth. Unlike removable dentures, implants prevent jaw bone resorption and preserve facial structure leading to a fuller, younger look.
Implants can also help restore a person’s ability to chew and speak properly. However, your dental specialist must consider your general health before recommending an implant treatment plan.
Implant-Based Bridges
Implant-based bridges are a great solution for people with missing teeth. They look, feel and function just like natural teeth. They can restore a person’s chewing ability, smile and self-esteem.
First, dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone where teeth are missing. Over the next several months, osseointegration occurs, which fuses the titanium implant to the bone, providing a strong foundation for the prosthetic tooth.
Once the implants have fully healed, we will place a permanent bridge. Patients can expect a lifespan of ten years or more with proper care and routine visits to the dentist.
A fixed implant-supported bridge is a good option for patients who need to replace three or more teeth. They can also be used to support full-arch restorations, which involve replacing all the upper and lower teeth.
Single Tooth Implants
Single tooth implants are a sophisticated solution for replacing missing teeth. They are the most natural-looking restoration available and give you a tooth that emerges from your gums just like the real thing.
To replace a single tooth with an implant, the dentist places a metal post (called an implant) in your jaw bone. This can be made from a high-quality titanium alloy or a ceramic material called zirconia.
The implant will need time to fuse with your bone, which is known as osseointegration. It can take between four and 12 months for the procedure to be complete, so your doctor will probably see you a few times during that period.
Once the implant has bonded with your bone, the dentist will place an abutment–a piece that connects to the implant post and supports a false tooth or crown. This process can take a few weeks, while your gums heal. Then, you’ll receive your crown, which will either be cemented or screwed to the abutment.
Multiple Tooth Implants
Multiple tooth implants offer a more permanent and effective solution to missing teeth than fixed bridges or removable partial dentures. They also feel and function more like natural teeth.
A precise treatment plan is essential for achieving the desired result. This requires in-depth diagnostics such as a mouth CT scan and x-rays.
The dentist planning your dental implant procedure should have a strong understanding of your medical history and current health conditions. Failure to do so can lead to infection, improper healing or even failure in the treatment itself.
Your specialist will use the information gathered in these tests to ensure that your implants are placed correctly and can be expected to last for many years. They will also make sure that you understand what to expect from the surgery and recovery process.
Teeth Whitening
Many people have a desire to brighten their smile and get whiter teeth. Over time, teeth can become stained and discolored due to a variety of factors such as age, certain foods, beverages and smoking habits.
Professional teeth whitening can remove these stains and bring back the whiteness that you have lost. Teeth whitening treatments contain either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide which break down these stains and lighten the tooth color.
Ideally, teeth whitening should be completed before dental implants are placed. This ensures that implant crowns match the color of the natural teeth and will not stand out against the whitened teeth.
There are several whitening methods that your dentist can use such as laser, white-strip or tray gel based treatment. Depending on the technique, it can take several sessions to achieve the desired shade.
