A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants may be an option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason.
Types of Dental Implants
- Single Tooth: Replaces individual teeth in one or more locations.
- Implant Bridges: Two or more implants may be placed to replace multiple missing teeth.
- “All on 4” or Denture Implants: Many patients can have implants placed to enhance the function and fit of a denture. There are several different options to use implants with upper and/or lower dentures.
Are you a candidate for dental implants?
The ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant, or can be created by Dr. Bishop if repair is needed. The best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease.
Dental implants are intimately connected with the gum tissues and underlying bone in the mouth. Since periodontists like Dr. Bishop are the dental experts who specialize in precisely these areas, they are ideal members of your dental implant team. Not only does Dr. Bishop have experience working with other dental professionals, she also has the special knowledge, training and facilities that you need to have teeth that look and feel just like your own. Dr. Bishop and your dentist will work together to make your dreams come true.
What is a dental implant procedure like?
This procedure is a team effort between you, your dentist and your periodontist. Your periodontist and dentist will consult with you to determine when and where your implant should be placed. Depending on your specific condition and the type of implant chosen, your periodontist will create a treatment plan tailored to meet your needs.
- Replacing a Single Tooth – If you are missing a single tooth, one implant and a crown can replace it.
- Replacing Several Teeth – If you are missing several teeth, implant-supported bridges can replace them.
- Replacing All of Your Teeth – If you are missing all of your teeth, an implant-supported full bridge or full denture can replace them.
- Ridge Modification – Deformities in the upper or lower jaw can leave you with inadequate bone in which to place dental implants. To correct the problem, your ridge can have bone added to it to allow for the implant. Ridge modification has been shown to greatly improve appearance and increase your chances for successful implants that can last for years to come.
- Sinus Augmentation – A key to implant success is the quantity and quality of the bone where the implant is to be placed. The upper back jaw has traditionally been one of the most difficult areas to successfully place dental implants due to insufficient bone quantity and quality and the close proximity to the sinus. Sinus augmentation can help correct this problem by developing bone for the placement of dental implants.
What can I expect after receiving a dental implant?
As you know, your own teeth require conscientious at-home oral care and regular dental visits. Dental implants are like your own teeth and will require the same care. In order to keep your implant clean and plaque-free, daily brushing and flossing still apply!
After treatment, Dr. Bishop will work closely with you and your dentist to develop the best care plan for you. Periodic follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your implant, teeth and gums to make sure they are healthy. Click here to schedule your appointment!