A Deep Dive Into Dental Implants With CCFD

Introduction to Dental Implants

According to the American College of Prosthodontics (ACP), approximately 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. In addition to impacting self-esteem, missing teeth can also affect the way you eat and speak and ultimately lead to poor oral health.

To ensure that your smile remains healthy and beautiful, dental implants are a safe and long-lasting solution for missing teeth. At Chester County Family Dentistry, Dr. David Montgomery and Dr. Ryan Dunn have performed countless dental implant procedures. Patients have been pleased with not only how attractive their replacement teeth look, but also how they feel and function.

If missing teeth are causing you or someone you care about discomfort, learn more about how implant dentistry can help boost confidence and prevent potential dental problems.

Dental implants are shaped like cylinders or screws and typically made of titanium. Intended as strong, durable “roots,” your dentist surgically inserts these into the jaw to replace your natural roots. Once secured to the jawbone, they are not visible after surgery has been performed.

Depending on the needs of the patient and the state of their jawbone, two types of dental implants will likely be recommended:

• Endosteal Dental Implant

  As the most common type of implant, an endosteal dental implant is inserted into the jawbone.

• Subperiosteal Dental Implant

  When patients cannot wear conventional removable dentures and have less jawbone height, they will most likely need subperiosteal implants that are placed on top of the jaw instead of directly into the jawbone.

An examination with your dentist will confirm which type of implant is best for your needs.

Prior to considering a dental implant procedure, patients may wonder if opting for artificial teeth is necessary. When teeth are missing, that particular area of the jaw begins to lose bone structure, causing your teeth to shift and close the gap. When there is nothing for the bone to be stimulated by, it reabsorbs.

In addition to causing bone loss, missing teeth can also lead to problems performing day-to-day activities, such as eating and talking. The more teeth that are lost, the more function is lost. Additionally, over time as the structure of the jaw deteriorates, it will begin to change the look of your face.

As an added concern, missing teeth can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease.

In addition to resolving and preventing many of the issues that can occur as the result of missing teeth, dental implants have a host of additional benefits, which include:

• Dental Implant Durability

  Implants are made out of titanium which encourages bone growth that intertwines with the threads of the dental implants.

• Dental Implant Longevity

  Unlike other restorative options, with proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. This proves to be both cost-effective and life-enhancing.

• Dental Implant Safety

  With dental implants, your natural teeth are protected. Other options, such as tooth-supporting bridges, damage your remaining teeth over time.

• Dental Implant Beauty

  Dental implants are made to resemble and blend in with your natural teeth, including their color, height, and shape.

Another benefit of dental implants is the number of options you have. Whether you are missing one tooth, multiple, or even all of your teeth, dental implants can give you the best chance at returning to a normal life.

To determine what type of dental implants are right for you, Dr. Montgomery or Dr. Dunn will perform a dental exam and go over your medical history. If it’s decided that you will move forward with a dental implant procedure, the following process takes place:

• Insertion

  Our oral surgery team surgically inserts the dental implants into the open space(s) of your jawbone.

• Waiting Period

  A waiting period may be required for the bone to heal around the implant. This healing process is called osseointegration.

The final step in the process depends on the number of teeth you are having replaced:

• Single Tooth Replacement

  A crown is crafted to match your natural teeth and is attached to the implant.

• Multiple Tooth Replacement

  Multiple crowns or an implant-supported bridge replace your missing teeth.

• Removable Implant-Supported Tooth Replacement

  An implant-supported bridge or a full set of dental implants is required.

Following your dental implant procedure, there are a few things that you can do to ensure that you get the optimum dental implant experience.

First, make sure you keep up with a daily dental hygiene routine. Brush all of your teeth twice a day and floss at least once daily. You can also get an interdental toothbrush that cleans those hard to reach spots in the mouth or an electric toothbrush if you find effective plaque removal a challenge.

If you are a smoker, now is the time to throw that pack in the trash. Smoking can contribute to periodontal (gum) disease which can lead to bone loss around your new dental implants and lead to their premature deterioration.

As always, schedule your semi-annual dental visits. This way Dr. Montgomery and Dr. Dunn can keep an eye on any adjustments that might be needed for your dental implants.

It’s important to have a dental professional you can trust to perform the dental implant procedure with the utmost care and precision.

Chester County Family Dentistry has a trustworthy team of dentists and hygienists who will make sure that any of your questions or concerns are answered.

Whether you have been searching for dental implants near me, or have other dental needs, please feel free to give us a call to set up an appointment. We are happy to assist you in scheduling an appointment for a dental implant consultation.