Q: I’ve heard about dental implants, but I’m still not sure exactly what they are. Can you explain?
A: It’s no wonder you’ve heard of them: Dental implants have been called
the most exciting advance in dentistry in the last 50 years!
Essentially, the implant itself is a small, screw-shaped post that is
placed in the jaw bone (underneath the gums), and serves as a
replacement for the tooth’s roots. It is attached to a lifelike crown (a
replacement for the visible part of the tooth) via a sturdy connector
called an abutment. Dental implants offer results that can last a
lifetime, and have the highest documented success rate of any tooth
replacement system — over 95%.
Q: How does a dental implant work?
A: A few decades ago, it was discovered that titanium metal has a unique
property: It can actually become fused to living bone tissue in a
process called osseointegration. Implants are made of titanium, and take
advantage of this feature. Solidly anchored in place by both
osseointegration and mechanical forces, dental implants provide a strong
and durable base for several different kinds of natural-looking and
fully functional replacement teeth.
Q: What are dental implants used for?
A: One dental implant can be used to replace just one missing tooth
with a crown that matches your own teeth. Two or more dental implants
can be used to support a fixed bridge (a series of three or more
replacement teeth) without requiring any work to be done on the
adjacent, healthy teeth. Four or more implants can support an entire
arch (complete top or bottom set) of replacement teeth that won’t slip
and will never need to be removed — a great alternative to traditional
removable dentures! Implants can also be used to support some kinds of
removable dentures, and in certain orthodontic procedures.
Q: What is the procedure for getting a dental implant?
A: The implant process begins with a consultation, a thorough exam, and
a set of diagnostic images. Placing one or more implants involves minor
surgery, which is typically performed in the dental office and requires
only local anesthesia. After the area has been numbed, a small opening
is made in the tissue of gums and jaw bone, and the implant is carefully
inserted. In some situations, a temporary replacement tooth may be
placed on the implant immediately; otherwise, the implant will be
allowed to rest for a period of weeks. In either case, the permanent
replacement teeth will be secured to the implants at a subsequent visit.
Q: What are the advantages of an implant over other tooth replacement methods?
A: We already mentioned the high success rate and the long life of
dental implants. Another advantage is the fact that implants stop the
deterioration of bone in the jaw that inevitably follows tooth loss.
Bone loss, a “hidden” consequence of tooth loss, is what tends to make
people who are missing teeth look older than they really are. Implants
need no special care beyond what you would give your natural teeth, and
their longevity can make them a cost-effective investment in the long
term. Plus, they look, function and “feel” just like your natural teeth.
If you’d like to find out more about dental implants, please contact us or schedule an appointment
for a consultation. You can also read the Dear Doctor magazine articles “Dental Implants” and “The Hidden Consequences of Losing Teeth.”
Serving Waukesha, Oconomowoc, and Hartland Wisconsin, Bailey Family Dental is most concerned with your comfort. Hartland Dentists Drs Terese and Richard Bailey and their friendly staff will explain treatment options and give estimates before you begin your treatments. To learn more, feel free to go to our website at www.bailyfamilydental.com, or call us at 262-369-8633. Our office is located at 557 Cottonwood avenue, Hartland Wisconsin.
Serving Hartland, Waukesha, Oconomowoc, and Brookfield Wi, Bailey Family Dental will meet all your families dental needs. General Dentistry, Dental Exams, Cleanings, Cosmetic Dentistry, Children's Dentistry, Sedation Dentistry and Teeth Whitening. If your looking for a family dentist with comfort in mind, call us at 262-369-8633.
Sunday, June 29, 2014
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