Implant Dentistry Questions
Springfield, Holyoke, Longmeadow, and Wilbraham, MA Implant Dentist
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are tooth root replacements made of a titanium alloy. They are surgically embedded in the jaw bone to anchor a tooth crown replacing a lost tooth. The bone fuses with the implant and provides strong and durable support for the new tooth. Implants can also support a removable bridge. One implant can hold two teeth and you can even replace a mouthful of teeth with several implants.
What will my replacement tooth look like?
Our implant dentists at Baystate Dental we use a porcelain crown as the replacement tooth on dental implants. Dental porcelain is highly durable, very natural-looking, and stain resistant. We custom-make the new tooth to fit smoothly with surrounding teeth and with your bite. Your cosmetic dentist will choose porcelain to match your tooth enamel, making the new tooth impossible to identify as being a replacement.
Why should I consider dental implants over dentures or dental bridges?
Dental implants have many advantages over dentures or dental bridges:
- They do not rely on adjacent teeth for support
- They are permanent dental restorations and do not shift in the mouth
- They are stronger and last longer
- They are more comfortable
- They function like natural teeth
How long can I expect my dental implants to last?
With effective dental hygiene, you can expect decades of service from your dental implant and the replacement tooth or teeth it anchors. As long as you do not allow gum disease to develop, the jawbone and gums will enclose them snugly and safely and you will be able to eat all your favorite foods.
What is the Dental Implant Procedure Like?
It has three stages. Your cosmetic dentist surgically places the dental implant in the bone. There is then a healing period of six to eight weeks for the lower jawbone or four to six months for the upper jawbone. The bone grows closely in around the implant, helped by the tiny grooves that run around it. A tiny abutment (projection) is attached to the top of the implant which partly protrudes from the gums. About two weeks later: The new tooth is attached to the visible abutment and your smile is complete
Although it may sound like major surgery, and it is in fact dental surgery, there is far less discomfort than you might expect. You can eat most of your favorite foods while the bone heals beneath the gums. If you have existing partials or dentures, you can wear them during the healing periods, although some modification may be needed to accommodate the temporary swelling normally associated with surgery.
If you would like to discuss dental implants with one of our highly-qualified implant dentists, please for an initial implant dentistry consultation in our East Longmeadow, Longmeadow, Wilbraham, West Springfield or Springfield, MA office.
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