Raleigh, NC Implant Dentist - Cary, NC Dental Implants - Dr. Paul C. Kazmer Jr. DDS About Dental Implants
A recent article in the NY Times about dental implants worth a read: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/17/health/17brod.html?_r=1&ref=health
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that a periodontist places where a tooth used to be, to hold a replacement tooth, bridge or denture. Dental implants are an ideal option for people in good general oral health who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason. They can replace a missing tooth or teeth without affecting bordering teeth. Dental implants can replace a single missing tooth, support a bridge and eliminate the need for a removable partial denture. They can also provide support for a denture, making it more secure and comfortable.
What are the Advantages of Dental Implants?
Dental implants look and feel like normal teeth. They prevent bone loss and gum recession that often accompany bridgework and dentures because the implants are integrated into the structure of your bone.
Dental implants don't sacrifice the quality of your adjacent teeth like a bridge does because neighboring teeth are not altered to support the implant. Many of your own teeth are left untouched which is a significant long-term benefit to your oral health.
Dental implants will allow you to speak and eat with comfort and confidence. They offer freedom from the worries about misplaced dentures and messy pastes.
Dental implants have a higher success rate that bridges or dentures. They are considered an excellent long-term option for tooth replacement.
Are you eligible for Dental Implants?
The ideal candidate for a dental implant is one who is in good-fair general and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of or have been treated for periodontal disease.
How are Dental Implants placed in the mouth?
A small space is carefuly created to allow implant placement into your jaw. An implant is approximately the same size of the root that used to be there. Over the next two to three months the implant and the bone are allowed to bond together to form an anchor for your artificial tooth. The titanium dental implant becomes your "new root".
After the implant is placed you will be asked to return for a brief follow-up visit, to we can see that all is healing well. Finally, a replacement tooth called an abutment and crown will be created for you by your general dentist. You will experience restored confidence in your smile and your ability to chew and speak.
What happens after treatment?
In order to keep your implant clean and free of plaque, brushing and flossing will be necessary. After treatment, your periodontist and your dentist will work closely together to develop the best care plan for you. Periodic follow-ups will be scheduled to monitor your implant, teeth and gums to make sure they are healthy.
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