Dental implants are the strongest, most permanent solution for replacement teeth. They are designed to provide a foundation for crowns which look, feel and function like natural teeth.

Implants are tiny titanium posts which are inserted into the jawbone to act as substitutes for the tooth root. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong anchor. Crowns are custom designed, made to look natural and to fit perfectly with your other teeth, then fixed onto the post.

For most people, the placement of dental implants involves only one surgical procedure. First, the implant is placed within your jawbone. For 6 - 8 weeks following surgery, the implants are at the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear a temporary crown or dentures. During this process we will create your new replacement teeth.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, we attach small posts which protrude through the gums. When the artificial teeth are placed on these, the posts will not be seen.

A single crown is used to replace one missing tooth – each prosthetic tooth attaches to its own implant. A partial prosthesis (fixed bridge) can replace two or more teeth and may require only two or three implants. A complete dental prosthesis (fixed bridge) replaces all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw.

With implants you do not have to worry about removing a denture or partial denture at night. You also won’t have to worry about eating foods that can cause a denture to stain or slip – no dietary restrictions required. The new tooth or teeth will be solidly fixed in place and will be as strong or stronger than your natural teeth.

Once the implants are in place, they will serve you well for many years if you take care of them and keep your mouth healthy. This means taking the time for good oral hygiene - brushing and flossing.

Back to Comprehensive Dentistry at Woodcreek Dental Care