A dental implant is one of the greatest improvements in dentistry and has been utilized for over 25 years in the United States. A dental implant is a permanent replacement for the root of a tooth and may be used to support a crown, bridge or denture where there were missing teeth. The first step is to have the implant placed. Dr. Emam will refer you to an oral surgeon or periodontist who will coordinate with Dr. Emam to ensure that further restoration of the smile is planned to the smallest detail and proceeds smoothly. Once integration of the implant is achieved, we proceed by creating a custom tooth or teeth that will become a permanent and fixed solution. Dr. Emam will also provide a temporary solution so that you are never without teeth. One of the benefits of dental implants is that they do not decay but more importantly, they preserve the bone structure where the tooth is missing. The body recognizes our teeth by the roots. If a root is missing, the body begins resorbing the bone structure which not only leads to gum issues, but the adjacent teeth may being to migrate and lose their bone support.
Single Implants
Replacing a single tooth with an implant is a great option for replacing a tooth. Once the implant is placed and completed the tooth will function exactly like the original, natural tooth. Another benefit to a dental implant is that none of the neighboring teeth have to be touched or sacrificed in any way. Unlike a tooth supported bridge, a dental implant won’t result in gum / bone loss. The bone surrounding the original tooth is held in place by the implant and doesn’t deteriorate such as in the case of a tooth supported bridge or flipper. Further benefits of single tooth implants include better hygiene control and aesthetics in order to match surrounding teeth.
Multi-tooth implants for Bridges and Dentures
If a patient is missing multiple teeth, a multi tooth bridge is a great option to restoring the functionality of the smile as well as the beautiful aesthetics every smile needs. Just like single tooth implants, multi tooth implants do not need the aid of surrounding teeth and replace the roots of the original, natural teeth.
A custom, implant supported denture will be created by a dental lab and will include attachments that snap into multiple dental implants. This is the best solution for a fixed denture that allows you to function as you would with natural teeth. No longer are denture wearers subject to slipping dentures, gum irritation, and adhesives. Implant supported dentures feel better and people are able to eat better! Hygiene is easily manageable with multi tooth implants and will allow bone levels to remain stable. Ask Dr. Emam how she can help you replace your teeth or conventional denture with the use of Dental Implants.