Dental Implants
Dental implants are a very reliable source for effective tooth replacement. Whether you have lost one tooth or many, implants can provide a permanent solution that looks and functions normally.
Dental implants are a very reliable source for effective tooth replacement. Whether you have lost one tooth or many, implants can provide a permanent solution that looks and functions normally.
Dental implants are essentially artificial teeth that permanently replace lost, damaged, or decaying natural teeth. Unlike removable dentures, fixed dental implants are permanently anchored to the jawbone, providing a lifetime of durability that restores up to 99% of the use and functionality of natural teeth. Most dental implants consist of three main parts: the implant post, the abutment, and the restoration. First, the implant post (commonly made of titanium) is surgically placed into the jawbone. Next, the abutment is attached to the post. This abutment will serve as an anchor to permanently attach the custom replacement tooth (known as the restoration). At our practice in Wilmington, NC, Dr. John is well-versed in all forms of implant fabrication, surgery, and final placement.
At Porters Neck Dental Aesthetics in Wilmington, NC, we acknowledge that no two patients are the same. This is why each restoration is custom-made to the patient’s exact measurements and specifications. This requires an unprecedented level of skill and experience to produce a comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing restoration. Dr. John is trained in implant placement and will work with you on a personal level to make sure that your restorations not only look beautiful but that they function flawlessly and will provide decades of durable, reliable use.
The first step of dental implants is having the dentist consult and examine the site in the mouth where the dental implant is being considered. The dentist will need to consider if any of the neighboring teeth need to be extracted and which type of bone graft needs to be conducted.
Once the patient has been given a few months to heal, the dental implant is placed into the bone and a healing cap is placed over the implant so the healing phase can begin. It’s important to visit the dentist every six months for a check-up to ensure healing.
Two of the most commonly used dental implants are endosteal implants and all-on-4 implants. Endosteal implants are the most common dental implant option. They are comprised of a titanium metal rod that is installed into the jawbone and a supporting post that is specifically designed to secure either a dental crown or a dental bridge. All-on-4 implants are a revolutionary dental implant system in which an entire top or bottom denture is supported on just four implants. Each implant is strategically placed so that the replacement teeth remain steady and secure. The advantage of using four implants is that it helps promote faster patient recovery and reduces the likelihood of complications from possible implant failure.
When you lose a tooth, it can become difficult to chew and speak clearly. If tooth loss is left untreated, it could result in problems like tooth shifts, jawbone deterioration, facial structure and bite imbalances. These issues usually develop over time when there is no root system to maintain bone health and alignment.
Dental implants can not only help a patient overcome short-term challenges; they can also prevent long-term problems linked to tooth loss. They are the most effective method for treating tooth loss because they serve as an artificial root system for supporting a prosthetic tooth.
If you have more questions about dental implants or want to schedule an appointment, please give us a call and we will be happy to discuss further.
