Understanding Implants

For decades, dentures were the go-to method of tooth replacement. However, modern advances in dental technology have created a new solution to replace missing teeth with benefits far exceeding those of traditional dentures. Dental implants consist of a titanium post that serves as a substitute tooth root and a porcelain replacement tooth designed to seamlessly blend in with your natural teeth. Candidacy for the dental implant procedure is based upon the health of the jawbone as well as the patient’s overall health, and the procedure can benefit patients of all ages. Each dental implant treatment is customized for the individual patient. After the procedure, you can have a replacement tooth that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth. Dr. J. Otis Hurst and the team at Preferred Family Dental can help you replace missing teeth with beautiful results.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Unlike traditional dentures, dental implants actively work to preserve the natural contours of the face and prevent the facial bones from shifting. Dental implants are fixed to the jaw, providing 24-hour support to the rest of the face, just as natural teeth would. In addition, dental implants are completely independent of the natural teeth and do not rely on adjacent teeth for support. Because the dental implants are freestanding, they can be brushed, flossed, and cleaned during your normal oral health routine without any extra care or maintenance.

Additional benefits include:

• Solution for missing teeth
• No slipping or movement along the gums
• Natural look and feel
• Restored ability to chew and speak with ease
• Reduced impact on adjacent teeth
• Increased self-confidence in the way your smile looks

Dental Implant Treatment

Once you are deemed a good candidate for dental implants, our dentists will design a custom treatment plan to optimize the results of the procedure. The titanium implant posts are affixed to the jawbone. Over the next few months, the post should fuse to the bone, providing support in place of the missing tooth. A temporary crown is placed on the implant post during this process. Once the post has fused to the jawbone, your porcelain implant restorations are milled, sculpted, and placed onto the post for the most natural fit possible.

Dental implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth or an entire row of teeth, depending upon the individual patient’s needs and circumstances. For patients that are not eligible for a full set of dental implants, implant-supported dentures may be offered as an alternative option.

Contact Preferred Family Dental

To learn more about dental implants, contact Preferred Family Dental today. Our dentists will be happy to discuss a treatment plan to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.