Everyone deserves to feel happy and confident about their smile. Unfortunately, if you have missing or damaged teeth, this can be difficult. In addition to affecting your appearance, gaps in your teeth increases the risk of oral health problems (such as jaw pain).
If you’re looking for a solution, implant dentistry can help. Prosthodontist Dr. Steven A. Brisman and Periodontist Dr. Kevin Loshak of Advanced Dentistry of Scarsdale work together to provide high-quality dental implants that look and feel just like regular teeth. Let’s take a closer look at implant dentistry and the unique benefits it offers.
What Is Implant Dentistry?
Dental implants are small fixtures designed to replicate real teeth, both in appearance and functionality. They’re surgically implanted into the jawbone, then fused with the bone over a few months. Most dental implants are made of titanium, a safe material that provides a strong bite. When installed properly, dental implants can last a lifetime.
How Does Implant Dentistry Work?
Here’s a closer look at the steps involved in implant dentistry.
1. Consultation
Before beginning the surgical procedure, the Advanced Dentistry of Scarsdale team will schedule a consultation with you. During this meeting we will ask questions, evaluate your teeth and help decide if dental implants are the right choice for you.
The good news is, most people (regardless of age) are eligible for dental implants. However, some patients have soft jawbones that cannot support dental implants. In these cases, we may recommend starting with a bone grafting procedure (which involves removing damaged bone, then inserting a new piece of bone to hold the implant). Once this is done, you can move forward with the implants.
2. Surgery
After you’ve been improved for dental implants, the next step is the installation. We will start by administering local anesthesia (or, if you have dental anxiety, a sedative) to numb the area. Then, we will make a small cut in your gum, exposing the bone underneath.
If a bone graft is needed, we can usually perform it at this stage. However, some patients may need multiple appointments. Once the bone is ready, we will proceed to implant the artificial, titanium tooth roots.
3. Healing
Like most surgeries, implant dentistry comes with a brief recovery period. To help the implants heal quickly, you should maintain the following routine for a few days:
- Eat soft foods at moderate temperatures
- Gently rinse implants with a saltwater solution
- Use ice packs to manage swelling
If swelling or pain is intense, we may prescribe an over-the-counter pain reliever. After about three to six months, the implant should be fully healed, and you can progress to the next step.
4. Restoration
The final part of implant dentistry is the restoration, or the top layer of the artificial tooth. This element, which is typically made of porcelain, helps make the implants resemble regular teeth. These are the main options for the restoration:
Our team will place the restoration directly over the implant. Then, you’ll have a complete, healthy smile you can enjoy for years to come.
5. Follow-Ups
After your dental implants are complete, it’s important to take care of them through proper brushing and flossing. You should also keep your regular, bi-annual dental appointments. Other than these steps, there are no special requirements necessary for maintaining dental implants.
What Are The Benefits of Implant Dentistry
Although implant dentistry is not the only option available for replacing teeth, it’s often preferred due to its numerous benefits. Here are some of the top advantages.
Quality Appearance
The first thing you’ll notice when examining your dental implants is that they look (and feel) just like the rest of your teeth. While other replacements may stand out, implants are virtually indistinguishable from real teeth.
Easy to Care For
One of the best things about dental implants is that they require little to no maintenance. Since they’re designed to look like normal teeth, there are no special oral care routines — all you have to do is brush and floss as usual. In many ways, implants are actually easier to care for than regular teeth, as they don’t decay.
Permanent Solution
Unlike other tooth replacements (such as dentures), dental implants are permanent solutions. The titanium roots can remain in place for the rest of your life. In some cases, the restoration may wear down — however, this happens infrequently and is easy for a dentist to fix.
Security and Stability
A common concern when it comes to false teeth is slippage. Nobody wants their artificial teeth to slip or fall out during a conversation. Fortunately, dental implants are strong and stable. Because they’re anchored to your gums, there’s no risk of slipping.
Replicates Bite Force
Dental implants are not just a cosmetic solution; they’re also highly functional. For example, they’re capable of biting down on food with the same force found in regular teeth. Thus, you don’t have to avoid any meals or worry about breakage.
Prevents Bone Loss
A common side effect of missing teeth is bone loss. When your upper and lower teeth connect, your jawbone is stimulated and strengthened. However, if you’re missing a tooth, your jawbone cannot receive that stimulation — thus, you end up with bone loss. Over time, this can negatively impact the shape of your face. Since dental implants function like regular teeth, they’ll help you maintain jaw strength (and prevent bone loss).
Where Can I Get Implant Dentistry?
From the long-lasting effects to the simple maintenance, there are plenty of benefits when it comes to implant dentistry. Ultimately, dental implants are a great way to restore the appearance of your teeth and help ensure your oral health remains in good shape.
Of course, for the best results, it’s important to work with a reputable dental team. Advanced Dentistry of Scarsdale has years of experience when it comes to implant dentistry and is dedicated to achieving high-quality, permanent outcomes. Learn more by scheduling a consultation today!
