Dental Implants
At Edwards Family Dentistry, you have a one-stop shop for dental implants. Our state-of-the-art office features the latest technology, including Cone Beam CT imaging, virtual implant treatment planning, and 3-D printed surgical guides.
For teeth that are lost or damaged beyond repair, modern dental implants can provide a permanent replacement that maintains the look, feel, and function of natural teeth.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are simply small titanium posts which are placed into the jawbone to support replacement teeth. They have a high success rate if done properly. There are 500,000 dental implants placed annually in the U.S. alone.
What are the Benefits?
- Dental Implants can minimize the pain and frustration of conventional dentures.
- Dental Implants can prevent bone loss.
- Dental Implants can improve the quality of your life. Specifically, they can help with:
- Speaking: Dental implants allow you to speak with confidence in a relaxed and natural tone rather than tensing the facial muscles to hold dentures in place.
- Convenience: Implants eliminate the use of denture adhesives that often must be re-applied throughout the day.
- Eating: Patients with dental implants can eat a wide range of foods with less difficulty than patients with dentures.
- Appearance: Since dental implants look, feel and function like natural teeth, you will have a new tooth or set of teeth that will greatly improve your smile.
Who is a Candidate?
In general, anyone missing at least one tooth and healthy enough to undergo routine dental treatment is probably able to undergo dental implant treatment. There are some medical conditions that warrant special consideration before placing dental implants, and Dr. Edwards will discuss these with you if applicable.
If you already wear dentures but are psychologically uncomfortable with them or find them physically difficult, you should consider implants. You are never too old to get dental implants.
However, you will need to have patience. Dental implant treatment plans typically take between 4 and 12 months depending on the necessary steps involved.
What is the Procedure?
The first step in planning for dental implants is to make an appointment for an evaluation. You’ll receive X-rays, a CT scan, and any further work-up needed. If all the factors are favorable, the implant can often be placed at the next appointment. Healing and integration occur for the next few months. Then, your final crown, bridge, or denture will be fabricated.
How long do they last?
When properly maintained with adequate brushing and flossing, the implant can last a lifetime, assuming the patient receives regular dental visits. Like natural teeth, dental implants must be maintained through regular brushing and flossing. In severe cases, poor home-care can lead to periodontal (gum) disease, which can be harmful to a dental implant.
Stop by our clinic for an implant consultation or contact us for more information!
