Smile with confidence using dental implants
Dental implants are small surgical posts made of biocompatible materials that act like natural tooth roots. Once placed and integrated with the surrounding bone, they provide exceptional support for single crowns, bridges, and dentures. As the most advanced method for replacing missing teeth, dental implants offer a satisfying, durable, and functional solution for restoring a complete smile.
Consider all the advantages
If you have missing teeth—whether one, several, or all—dental implants can help you restore a complete and beautiful smile! The popularity of dental implants is growing rapidly, with around 3 million people having already received them and an additional 500,000 joining their ranks each year. This surge in popularity is due to the numerous benefits dental implants offer over other replacement options.
While traditional fixed bridges and dentures are effective for replacing missing teeth, dental implants provide several distinct advantages:
- Dental implants closely mimic the appearance, sensation, and function of natural teeth.
- With proper placement, oral hygiene, and regular care, dental implants can last many years.
- Implants stimulate the underlying bone, preventing bone loss and preserving your natural facial contours.
- Unlike removable dentures, implants function like natural teeth, remaining securely in place while speaking or eating.
- Implants allow you to speak, eat, and enjoy all types of food without restrictions.
- Dental implants do not decay and are not prone to cavities.
- Unlike fixed bridges, implants do not require any preparation or crowning of adjacent teeth.
Opt for dental implants for a natural-looking, long-lasting solution to missing teeth.
Types of Dental Implants
Single-tooth implant
A traditional fixed bridge typically involves preparing and crowning the teeth on both sides of the gap. These crowned teeth support the artificial teeth, or "pontics," that fill the space. Much like a bridge over water relies on strong pillars at each end, a traditional fixed bridge gains strength and stability from the crowned teeth supporting one or more pontics.
In contrast, a cantilever fixed bridge is similar but differs significantly. Only one side of the pontic is supported by a crown, while the other side extends into the gap without additional support.
Implant-supported fixed bridges
An implant-supported bridge is an excellent solution for replacing multiple missing teeth. It preserves the health of neighboring natural teeth, prevents bone shrinkage, and maintains facial contours by providing essential bone stimulation. Unlike a traditional fixed bridge, which requires the preparation and crowning of adjacent natural teeth, an implant-supported bridge relies on strategically placed dental implants to support the crowns and replacement teeth.
Full arch replacement with four or six implants
A full arch replacement supported by four or six implants offers a superior alternative to traditional dentures. This approach not only restores a natural-looking smile but also provides the functionality and feel of real teeth. Unlike removable dentures, these implant-supported teeth are permanently fixed in place, eliminating the need for adhesives and the inconvenience of cleaning. With this solution, individuals can speak, smile, and chew confidently. Temporary teeth can be placed right away, with a permanent set installed once the implants have fully integrated with the surrounding bone.
Implant-retained denture
This type of denture is known as an implant-supported denture. It is anchored to several precisely placed implants in either the upper or lower jaw. These implants provide secure support for the denture, ensuring stability and retention. With this enhanced support, individuals can smile, speak, and eat with confidence and ease.
Are Dental Implants the Right Choice for me?
If you're uncertain whether dental implants are right for you, finding out is straightforward. At St. Charles Family Dentistry, we evaluate your smile and provide detailed answers to your questions, discussing the best dental implant options for your needs. We treat each smile as unique, crafting personalized treatment plans that consider your medical and dental history, current oral health, cosmetic goals, lifestyle, and budget.
How Are Dental Implants Placed?
Careful planning and execution are essential for successful dental implant procedures, including the initial treatment planning, precise placement of the implants, and the creation and insertion of final crowns, bridges, or dentures.
Dental implant surgery is generally a minor outpatient procedure, though its complexity depends on the number of implants and any additional preparations required for the supporting bone.
Effective communication is key to our patient care approach. Before your implant procedure, we will discuss anesthesia and sedation options, and provide detailed instructions for pre- and post-operative care. We ensure you are well-informed throughout the entire process.
After an implant is placed, it typically takes a few months to fully integrate with the surrounding bone. Some implant solutions may allow for the placement of a temporary crown or bridge on the same day, while others require waiting for complete healing and fusion with the bone before the permanent prostheses are placed.
