Dental implants are permanent replacements for missing teeth. They look, feel and function like natural teeth. They can prevent the bone deterioration that often occurs when one or more teeth are missing. When choosing an implant dentist near me, be sure to look for a specialist who offers personalized care. Instead of a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution, your surgeon and restorative dentist will work together to plan your treatment. This ensures that your prosthetic teeth fit well and appear natural-looking.

Made of titanium, dental implants are like screws that become part of the jawbone. They support an artificial tooth, called a crown.

Dental Implants

Implants are the next best thing to natural teeth, fusing with your jaw bone and supporting cosmetic restoration options like crowns and bridges. They also prevent further tooth loss by stopping bone recession due to missing root stimulation.

Your dentist will use diagnostic tests and consultation to determine whether you are a good candidate for implants, including a cone beam CT scan. This will allow them to plan the placement of the titanium implant post so that it fuses well with the bone.

At your surgery appointment, the implant is placed under local anesthesia. A healing cap is then placed over the implant and your gums are stitched up. Over the course of three to six months, the implant will fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. Many patients experience pain and discomfort during this time, which can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription medications. However, sedation dentistry is also available for added comfort.

Teeth Whitening

Whitening is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to improve the appearance of your smile. It can remove stubborn stains from coffee, red wine, and tobacco. Whitening can also help boost your confidence and encourage you to follow better oral hygiene habits.

The whitening process involves applying a hydrogen peroxide-based bleaching gel to your teeth, which is then activated using safe and cool blue light. A second chemical, potassium nitrate, is also applied to reduce sensitivity and strengthen your enamel.

Your dentist may recommend a professional whitening treatment in their office or a bleaching kit you can use at home with supervision. Be sure to follow directions and avoid foods or beverages that stain, including berries, dark chocolate, tea and coffee, carbonated drinks, and certain types of sports drink. Also, be aware that whitening won’t whiten dental restorations like crowns, veneers, or resin, and it can damage enamel. The materials used for these restorations are stain and bleach resistant, however.

All-on-4 Treatment

Implants offer a permanent alternative to dentures for patients who are missing all of their teeth. They also provide better function and appearance than traditional removable dentures. However, this treatment is not suitable for all patients and it’s important to conduct a thorough evaluation before getting started.

An All-on-4 dental implant treatment uses four implants to restore a full arch of teeth. The two implants at the back are angled, allowing professionals to safely place them even when bone conditions aren’t ideal.

The procedure itself is relatively quick and minimally invasive. Most patients can return to work and their regular activities the day after surgery.

During the pre-surgical appointment, your oral surgeon will conduct a detailed assessment using advanced imaging. This includes X-rays, 3D cone beam images, and photo evaluations. Afterward, a lab will process custom immediate-load hybrid dentures to be attached during the surgical appointment. These temporary teeth will allow you to maintain functionality while the implants heal.

Restorations

Dental implants provide an effective tooth replacement option for patients who are missing one or more of their teeth. They improve chewing and speech abilities, restore facial structure, and boost self-esteem. Moreover, they prevent bone loss in the jaw and can last a lifetime with proper care.

During the consultation process, your oral and maxillofacial surgeon will perform a physical exam and obtain panoramic X-rays and a 3D cone beam CT scan to determine if you are a good candidate for implants. If there is not enough healthy bone in your jaw to accept an implant, a bone graft can be performed to build up the area.

Once the implant has healed, the restoration is placed onto the post portion of the anchor.