Your teeth perform a variety of essential tasks every single day. They allow you to chew your food thoroughly, which is essential for proper digestion and good nutrition. They allow you to speak properly by controlling the flow of air. They provide you with a beautiful, confident smile. You may not think very much about your teeth or the jobs that they do until you lose them. No matter how many teeth you lose, whether one or many, all of the functions of your teeth, and your quality of life, are affected. Replacing missing teeth is essential for giving you back the functions of your mouth, your oral health, and your life. At Gibson & Bartholomew Restorative and Esthetic Dentistry, we can replace your missing teeth with
dental implants.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a fairly recent addition to the options available for tooth replacement. They are unlike any other option out there, and consist of three components:
| • |
The implant itself. The implant is a small titanium rod that is surgically inserted into the jawbone. Your bone fuses the titanium as you heal, turning the rod into a stable root.
|
| • |
An abutment. The abutment is attached to the exposed end of the implant and is the connection point between the implant and your replacement teeth.
|
| • |
The crown. The crown, made from ceramic, is made to replace the functions and aesthetics of your missing tooth. |
Implants for All Needs
Implants can be used to replace any number of missing teeth, from one tooth to an entire mouth, making them extremely versatile. There are several types of dental implants designed to suit a variety of needs:
| • |
Single tooth implants. When you are missing a single tooth in one area of your mouth, a single implant with one crown can be placed instead of a dental bridge.
|
| • |
Implant retained bridges. Implant retained bridges are used when you are missing several teeth in a single area of the mouth. One or more implants are placed to support the crowns.
|
| • |
Implant retained dentures. If you lose all of the teeth in a single arch, an implant retained denture can be used instead of a full denture. 6 to 8 implants are placed in the jaw to support your replacement teeth.
|
| • |
This treatment option uses four or more strategically placed implants to support your replacement prosthesis. |
Dental implants require a surgical procedure. A local anesthetic is administered to ensure your maximum comfort during the procedure. The implant or implants are then placed using a surgical guide to ensure their exact placement according to Dr. Bartholomew’s restorative plan, making sure that the end result will look and feel as natural as possible. Your gums are then closed with a few stitches, and as you heal, we monitor your progress, making sure that the bone is fusing properly to the implants after a few short months. During this time, it is possible to have temporary teeth depending on where your implants were placed. When you have healed completely, we then utilize digital impressions (no more goopy impressions!) to fabricate your new dental prosthesis. Dr. Bartholomew has over 400 hours of training dedicated specifically to placing and restoring dental implants, so you can rest assured you are in great hands with his expertise. .
Enjoy the Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer numerous
benefits:
| • |
The functions of your mouth are restored.
|
| • |
Your smile is restored, along with your confidence.
|
| • |
Improvements in your oral health.
|
| • |
Implants are a permanent solution for tooth loss.
|
| • |
They are more comfortable (the implants support your replacement teeth rather than your gums or adjacent teeth).
|
| • |
Your replacement teeth are easier to care for (they can be brushed and flossed just like your natural teeth).
|
| • |
Implants prevent the bone loss that normally accompanies tooth loss, helping your jaw to remain strong and stable. |
Two common solutions to fix the decayed tooth and surrounding teeth are dental implants or bridges, depending on your personal needs, which we can assess and help you determine which option may best suit you. Depending on your personal needs, either option is a great way to correct any tooth decay and prevent further damage from spreading to your nearby teeth.
If you are one of those people currently suffering from tooth decay and tooth loss, you may like to know what options are available to you to replace any teeth you have lost. Both dental implants and dentures are great options suited to meet the different needs of our patients.
With dental implants, we can help you to
restore the functions of your mouth, the beauty of your smile, and the health of your mouth, giving you back your quality of life. Contact Gibson & Bartholomew Restorative and Esthetic Dentistry today at (336) 283-2593 to schedule your consultation and find out if dental implants are the right solution for you.
Additional Information:
66457