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If you are suffering from permanent tooth loss, dental implants
can improve your lifestyle. You can discover the joy of eating
and speaking, and enjoying life by enhancing facial appearance
and confidence. Dental implants are a new way to replace missing teeth.
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They
offer an excellent alternative to the limitations of conventional
dentures, bridges, and missing teeth. Unlike the other alternatives,
implants actually are made of a bio-compatible metal, which
is placed in your jaw. Through the process of osseointegration,
new bone forms around the implant to anchor it in place. Once
this occurs, your restorative dentists will attach an artificial
tooth to the implant.
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You
may be a candidate for implants if you have enough dense bone
to secure the implant in bone and you do not have any health
condition, which may interfere with the healing process. Also,
good oral hygiene habits are important to increase the longevity
of the implant. If you have removable dentures, or are missing
only a few teeth, implants may be a viable option for you.
Implant
placement is a relatively simple procedure. It involves the
expertise of two dentists; an oral and maxillofacial surgeon
and a restorative dentist trained in dental implants. During
the initial phase, the implant is surgically placed into your
jawbone.
The
area is then allowed to heal for 3 – 8 months so that your
own bone can bond and adhere to the implant providing stable
anchorage for your future tooth replacement.
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Extraction
site
Healing
stage
Implant
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Once the initial healing period has been completed, the implant
can be uncovered underneath the gum tissue and a small post
can be placed. In selected cases, this post is placed at the
time of initial implant placement avoiding the need for a second
surgical procedure. The gum tissue is allowed to heal around
the post forming a cuff of gum tissue. A tooth replacement is
then fabricated by your dentists to attach to the implant. Removable
dentures can be held in place by a special bar or clips. For
a "fixed" replacement the prosthesis can be locked to the implant
to replace a single tooth or bridge. |
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Dental
implants require care just like any other teeth. Proper brushing,
flossing, rinsing, and regular check ups are critical for
the long-term success of your implant restoration.
If
you are missing teeth and have questions about implants, please
call Dr. Bressman or Dr. Laverdiere to schedule a consultation.
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| The material
contained herein is provided for informational purposes only
and should not be considered as medical advice or instruction.
Individuals with any disorder or other conditions discussed
in this site should consider a personal evaluation in our facility
or contact a qualified professional for further treatment. |
