|
If you are missing one or
more teeth, then dental implants may be the option for you. Dental
implants replace teeth that have been missing since birth or have
been lost to gum disease, infection, trauma or decay. Implants are
surgically attached to the jaw bone so that they become a permanent
part of your mouth. Implants are unlike dentures that can slip,
move and irritate soft gum tissue. Dentures can wear down the jaw
bone and make a comfortable fit virtually impossible.
 |
 |
| Before |
After |
Dental
Implant
Dental implants
look, feel and work like natural teeth because they are made of
a special metal (pure titanium) that is compatible with the jaw
bone. The metal helps the bone fuse with the implant, which is a
small post that protrudes from the gum tissue. Prosthetic teeth
are then attached to these posts for a natural-looking and attractive
result.
Since
dental implants help distribute chewing forces throughout the jaw
bone, they can restore up to 90% of the chewing power lost with
missing teeth, and they can minimise the erosion of the jaw bone
that normally occurs when teeth are lost or removed. Implants can
improve the cosmetics, retention and preservation of the jaw bones,
even if you are wearing a full or partial denture at the time.
One of the
fastest growing services in dentistry today is a procedure that
involves dental implants. Many patients who previously suffered
from missing teeth, soreness from dentures, decreased chewing ability,
and a less attractive appearance are now taking advantage of dental
implants to address these problems. Implants can literally improve
not only your smile, but more importantly for many denture wearers,
your ability to eat and talk.
But
what are dental implants? They are titanium cylinders that are placed
in the jaw bone. The mouth is carefully analysed to determine the
best location for the implants. Then a treatment plan is designed
that is appropriate for each individual. The actual process of receiving
implants is generally comfortable, and the implants literally become
attached to the jaw bone and have excellent retention. In most cases,
they are as comfortable and solid as your own teeth.
The initial
phase of dental implants is to have a surgical procedure that involves
placing the implants in the jaw bone. At this point, several months
of healing are necessary for the implant to become strongly attached
to the bone. During this time, any patient who has worn dentures
previously can continue to do so. If the implants are placed in
a site that is not required for chewing, then the implants can heal
by themselves. It generally takes anywhere from four to six months
for the implants to become completely secure. At that time, the
final prosthesis, such as a highly retained denture, crowns
or bridges will be
placed.
Regardless
of which option you choose, the retention of your prosthesis will
be stronger than ever. Everything should fit and feel much better.
Your dental health will be significantly improved. Dental implants
can improve the quality of your life. Best of all, you should be
more confident and comfortable when you are eating and smiling.
Many patients
who have dental implants comment that the quality of their lives
has significantly improved. They feel more confident and comfortable
eating. After 30 years of intensive worldwide research and success
rates approaching 90%, we are confident that implants will be a
superb benefit for our patients who are missing teeth.
Even if you
are wearing a full or partial denture at this time, implants can
improve the cosmetics, retention and preservation of the jaw bones.
Many problems associated with missing teeth or dentures have been
eliminated.
As you know,
our office is committed to offering the most advanced technology
available that will help our patients. Today, any patient who is
missing teeth is most likely a candidate for dental implants. The
implants last for many years and provide enhanced function and aesthetics.
The process of dental implant treatment is generally comfortable
and the final results are like your own teeth.
Because Dr
Wells has training, expertise, and experience with dental implants
and cosmetic dentistry, he is able to offer a number of options
to brighten smiles. Dental implants improve cosmetics because they
look, feel and work like natural teeth.
Our entire office is proud of
the implant services we are providing. Implant dentistry is one
of the most exciting new disciplines in dentistry and is changing
the lives of many of our patients. We look forward to seeing you
and answering any questions you may have about dental implants and
any of the problems associated with missing teeth, dentures and
removable bridges
|