What are dental implants?
Dental Implants are screw-like anchors or posts that replace the natural roots of a tooth. Dental implant surgery is a procedure that replaces those roots with the posts and replaces damaged or missing teeth with artificial teeth (crowns) that look and function just like real teeth. Unlike dentures, implants and crowns are permanent solutions to tooth loss and restoration.
When are dental implants needed?
Dental Implants are a great modern solution to the loss of a tooth due to injury or decay.
Dental implants may be right for you if you:
- have one or more missing teeth
- have adequate bone to secure the implants
- are eligible to have a bone graft if needed
- have healthy oral and gum tissues
- do not have any underlying conditions that would affect bone healing
- are unable to wear dentures
- do not smoke
The wonderful team at Hallock Family Dental is led by Dr. Erika Hallock & Dr. Michael Hallock. If a dental implant is recommended, one of our doctors will discuss all options for tooth and bridge replacements. If you are a good candidate for a tooth implant, our caring staff will make sure that you have a relaxing experience while our expert team restores your teeth for a beautiful and healthy smile.
What to expect?
Treatment is usually done in a 3 stage process
Step 1: Placing the Implant
Our highly skilled team will surgically place the dental implant in your jaw. A screw is inserted into the implant to prevent gum tissue and other debris from contaminating the site. The gum is then secured over the implant and allowed to heal. The healing and fusing process is usually between 3 and 6 months. This allows the implant to fuse with the jaw bone; the process is called osseointegration.
Step 2: Inserting the Post
The second step can have some variation, but generally, the implant is uncovered, and a post is attached to the implant. This will serve as the foundation for the crown that will be placed over the implant.
Step 3: Placing the Crown
Our highly skilled lab team will make the crown that has the correct shape, size, and color to fit among the rest of your teeth using state-of-the-art milling machines and one-of-a-kind craftsmanship. Our office even offers same-day crowns which means you can have your crown placed as soon as it is ready. Once the crown is ready, it is permanently attached to the implant and post and is ready to be used just like any other tooth.
The Benefits of Single Tooth Implants
There are multiple benefits to dental implants that make them one of the most recommended procedures by dentists around the world. One major benefit is that each implant is made of medical-grade titanium which fuses directly to your jawbone. The permanent fusion means there will be no additional bone damage caused by unwanted movement like in other tooth replacement solutions. The biggest benefit is the longevity of the implant. Because the implant is made using artificial materials, it will not decay as natural teeth can. You will have a support that is made to last a lifetime.
