Implants

Dental implants are the next best thing to your own tooth, which is why we recommend this option to so many patients.

Why Should I Replace My Tooth?

If you are missing a tooth, there are plenty of reasons to replace it:

A gap between your teeth, if obvious when you smile or speak, is a cosmetic concern. Missing teeth may affect your speech, making it unclear or difficult to understand. Both of these difficulties negatively impact your confidence

When a tooth is removed, the biting force on the remaining teeth begins to change. As the bite changes to compensate for the lost tooth, there is a risk of extra pressure and discomfort on the jaw joints, which may lead to temporomandibular disorder, also known as TMD.

If a missing tooth is not replaced, the surrounding teeth can shift. Harmful plaque and tartar can collect in new hard-to-reach places created by the shifting teeth. Over time, this may lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Bone loss can occur in the region of the missing tooth because the bone is no longer being stimulated by tooth roots.

The Next Best Thing to the Real Thing

One option for replacing a missing tooth is with a dental implant. Dental implants have been used for more than a quarter century.

They are man-made cylinders that are surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw where they function as a sturdy anchor for replacement teeth. Implants are made of titanium and other materials that are compatible with the human body.

The single tooth implant replaces the missing tooth’s roots. This is a particularly exciting feature because it can stimulate the bone, just as natural tooth roots do. By stimulating the bone, a dental implant can help prevent bone recession.

An implant looks and feels like a natural tooth. It fits securely when you chew and speak. A single tooth implant is a freestanding unit and does not involve treatment to the adjacent teeth. With a dental implant, if the surrounding teeth are healthy, they can remain untouched, and their strength and integrity may be maintained.

The implant can stabilize your bite and help prevent problems with the jaw (TMD). This leads to better overall health and more comfortable eating and speaking experiences.

What’s Involved?

The placement of an implant generally is a three-part process that takes several months. Dr. Stones may provide the treatment, or you may be referred to a specialist, such as a periodontist, prosthodontist or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for all or part of the treatment.

IN THE FIRST STEP, Dr. Stones surgically places the implant into the jaw, with the top of the implant slightly above the top of the bone. The gum is then secured over the implant, where it will remain covered for approximately three to six months while the implant fuses with the bone, a process called osseointegration.

There may be some swelling and/or tenderness for a few days after the surgery, so pain medication is usually prescribed to alleviate the discomfort.  A diet of soft foods, cold foods, and warm soup may be recommended to you during the healing process.

IN THE SECOND STEP, the implant is uncovered, and Dr. Stones attaches an extension, called an abutment, to the implant. The gum tissue is allowed to heal around the abutment. Once healed, the implant and post can now serve as the foundation for your new tooth.

IN THE THIRD AND FINAL STEP, Dr. Stones makes a custom replacement tooth, called a crown. Your crown will be a size, shape, color, and fit that will blend with your teeth. Once completed, the crown is attached to the implant abutment.

WHO IS A CANDIDATE?

If you are in good general health, with healthy gums and a jawbone that can support an implant, this treatment may be an option for you.

In fact, your health is more of a factor than your age. Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or leukemia, may interfere with healing after surgery. If you use tobacco, you are at greater risk for gum disease, which can weaken the bone and tissues needed to support the implant.

Meticulous oral hygiene is critical to the success of the implant. You’ll need to spend a little more time caring for the implant and making sure the area surrounding it is particularly clean. If your overall health is good and your teeth and gums are in good shape, we can evaluate and determine if you are a suitable candidate for a dental implant.

How Do I Care for an Implant?

Regular dental visits are essential to the life and long-term success of your implant. Some patients are scheduled for professional cleanings two to four times per year. Our office will provide you with a dental recall program to ensure the health of your implant and your natural teeth.

Our reliable staff will suggest a home care routine to suit your needs, which will include brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. You may also be advised to use a special toothbrush, an interproximal brush, or a mouth rinse to help prevent cavities and periodontal disease.

These steps can ensure that your implant adds a durable, functional touch to your smile for years to come!

Talk to Stones Family & Cosmetic Dentistry About Implants

If you are intrigued by this tooth replacement option, you can talk to one of our staff members to learn more. Contact Stones Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, your local Salem dentist, to make an appointment today!