Dental Implants Specialist

Why is it so important to replace missing teeth?

Having a gap in your smile can make you feel less confident. You might also struggle to enjoy a varied diet, or you may notice changes in your speech patterns. There are also serious bone health issues to consider.

Each of your natural teeth is anchored directly within your jaw bone. When you chew or bite down, you stimulate that bone, keeping it healthy and strong. Losing a tooth means also losing that stimulation, which can cause the bone to slowly wear away. That can weaken the connection between adjacent teeth and bone, creating even more tooth loss. 

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are a permanent option for replacing one or more missing teeth. Because implants are secured within your bone tissue, they replace the stimulation of your tooth root. 

You can have an individual implant to replace one missing tooth, or you can choose a system that mounts an entire upper or lower span of false teeth on just four upper or lower implanted posts.

With individual implants, there is a metal post portion that replaces your natural tooth root. The visible part of the implant is an artificial crown. Some implants use a small connector piece called an abutment to connect root and crown. 

What is the process for getting dental implants?

The first part of the process involves planning for your new implant. Advanced imaging determines if you have enough bone tissue to anchor the implant and also shows the precise alignment of your current bite. 

If you need to have teeth pulled in advance of your implant, you’ll need to schedule that procedure before the process moves forward. Any untreated gum disease should also be addressed to ensure the best possible results. 

On the day of your procedure, you’ll receive a local anesthetic to eliminate sensation in the treatment area. Dr. Faiwiszewski makes an incision in your gum tissue to access the underlying bone. He then drills a small pilot hole to guide the placement of the implant.

Once the implant is secured in your bone tissue, Dr. Faiwiszewski closes your gum tissue around the post. A period of healing follows, allowing your bone tissue to fully fuse to the post material. Once that process is complete, you’ll return to have the custom crown attached. 

If you’re ready to learn more about dental implants and how they can improve your smile, call the office to schedule a visit. Online booking is also a fast and easy option.