If you’re missing one, several, or all of your teeth, dental implants may be right for you. Made from durable, biocompatible materials, dental implants mimic the function of natural tooth roots to stimulate the jaw and prevent bone resorption while anchoring a crown, bridge, or other restoration. With advanced technology and the latest techniques, we’re proud to bring you the best of the best when it comes to implant dentistry. We tailor every treatment plan to our patients unique needs, so they can get a lasting smile that they can show off with confidence.
Placing a dental implant is a surgical procedure in which a titanium, screw-shaped post bonds directly with your jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. Dr. Dorsey will begin the procedure by creating an opening in the gums. Then, he will place the implant in the space, before covering the site to heal. Your gums will heal in a few weeks, but it can take anywhere from 3-6 months for the implant to permanently bond with your jaw through a process called osseointegration.
Once your implant has finished bonding with your jaw, the restoration can then be applied. The site will be opened back up, and a connecting piece called an abutment will be attached to the implant. Your gums will be closed around the site again, and will heal in a few weeks. Then, the restoration, most commonly a dental crown for single-tooth replacements, can be affixed to the implant, restoring and completing your smile.
One of the best aspects of dental implants is that they require little to no special care outside of regular brushing and flossing. Certain restorations, like implant-retained bridges and full-arch solutions require a little extra care, like using a water flosser to ensure no particles or debris linger underneath the prosthetic. Also, you’ll still need to return to the office for regular cleanings and checkups. Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care, but the restorations will likely need to be replaced eventually, though they are known to last for decades for many patients.
At Colonial Drive Preventative & Comprehensive Dentistry, we offer a full range of dental implant options, so whether you’re missing one, a few, or all of your teeth, we have a solution for you
Single tooth implants replace, you guessed it, a single tooth. They are made up of two primary components: the implant itself and a dental crown that is connected to the implant with an abutment. While you will eventually need to replace the crown, dental implants can last for 25 years, or even longer, with the proper care.
There are several types of full arch implant restorations, but what they all have in common is that they utilize 4-6 dental implants to anchor a full set of lower or upper prosthetic teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, full arch implant restorations won’t move or shift around, so you can speak, eat, and laugh without worrying about losing a grip on your smile!
Mini implants can be utilized in cases where a patient doesn’t have enough healthy bone in their jaw to support full-sized implants. They can even be used to support snap-in dentures (also called overdentures or implant-retained dentures) for added security and comfort.
To take care of your implants and surrounding teeth, you’ll just need to brush and floss frequently with a mild toothpaste and periodically schedule check-ups with your dentist to ensure you are maintaining your oral health.
Advantages of dental implants include: