Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implants are used to replace missing or non-restorable teeth. Dental implants look and function just like real teeth. There are various reasons why a person may need dental implants to replace their teeth. They may have missing or damaged teeth, or gaps between their teeth. Having these conditions can affect a person’s bite and appearance. This can often become detrimental to their overall health.

A dental implant is made of titanium and replaces the root structure of a natural tooth. It can be used in the upper or lower jaw. Dental Implants are extremely durable and with proper care – can last a lifetime. Taking care of a dental implant is no different than taking care of natural teeth, which includes brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. In some ways dental implants are better than real teeth – as you will NEVER get a cavity on a dental implant!

Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or a full arch of teeth. Dental implants are made of titanium – which is very bio-compatible with the human body. A dental implant is anchored tightly into the bone in either the upper or lower jaw. This ensures that the implant stays in place and has proper support. Therefore, it has similar functionality as a natural tooth and can be used to hold crowns or bridges after integrating with your bone.

The dental implant procedure begins with the dentist administering local anesthesia to the relevant area. Then an incision is made in the gum to expose the underlying bone. After that a space is created in the bone, slowly increasing in width to the final required diameter. In cases where more than one tooth is being replaced all of the spaces are created during this stage. The dentist then inserts the implant into the space and tightens it to ensure it has been anchored securely.

After the dental implant is placed, stitches are placed to close up the gums. The actual procedure takes about 15 minutes – but prep and post-op times can last about an hour for one implant, and a few hours for cases requiring more than one implant. Once the procedure is completed, x-rays are taken and the patient is evaluated to make sure they have tolerated the procedure well. After that they are free to go home. Since the titanium used in dental implants is compatible with the tissues in your bone, the dental implant integrates with your mouth within 3-6 months and your body cannot tell the difference from a natural tooth.

Dental implant surgery provides many benefits to those who may need the treatment. Dental implants improve overall health and can enhance your smile. Since it is a surgery, importance should be given to the art and science of the procedure. Make sure that you find the right dentist to perform it. Dr. Justin Frost and the team at Biltmore Dental Center excel at this procedure so you know you will be in good hands.