Dental Implants
Dentist West Linn
Following tooth loss, it is essential that your teeth be replaced as soon as possible. Traditionally, missing teeth have been replaced using bridges or dentures. While these treatments restore many of the functions of your teeth affected by tooth loss, they still have their downsides. At ZenTech Dentistry, we offer an alternative to these traditional treatments with dental implants.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants provide an alternative to traditional tooth replacement options. This treatment uses titanium rods, which are surgically placed into your jawbone, to provide support for your dental restorations. Your jawbone fuses to these posts, gradually integrating them into your jaw and turning them into secure roots. Your dental restorations, made from ceramic, are then affixed on top.
Implants for All Needs
Dental implants are a unique treatment that can be used to meet several different needs.
| • |
Single tooth. A single tooth implant is designed to replace an individual tooth. A single post provides support for a single crown.
|
| • |
Multiple teeth. A multiple teeth implant is also commonly called an implant supported bridge. This restoration is used to replace two or more missing teeth in a row.
|
| • |
Full arch restoration. A full arch restoration is used to replace a full arch of missing teeth. This treatment typically uses 6 to 8 implant posts to support your new teeth.
|
| • |
All-on-4® Treatment Concept. If you are missing an entire arch of teeth, but do not have the bone mass in your jaw to support the implant posts, All-on-4 can help to provide you with a full arch restoration without the need for a bone graft. |
Dental Implant Restoration
The effect of having a missing tooth on your self-confidence and self-esteem can be significant. However, there are several options available to get back the smile that you used to have before losing your teeth. One of the most popular and common options is dental implant restoration. The implant itself is a titanium post that acts like a root of a tooth when it comes to anchor dentures, bridges, and crowns to your mouth after extraction or losing teeth. If you are interested in dental implant restoration, our dentist at ZenTech Dentistry will educate you about your best options.
How are Implants Placed?
Implants require surgery for placement, which is done under a local anesthetic and sedation. Small incisions are made in your gums, providing access to your jawbone. We then drill small holes into your bone, according to your treatment plan, and place the implant posts directly inside. Next, your gums are sutured closed around the posts, leaving a small portion exposed above the gumline.
Finally, temporary teeth are placed. These temporary teeth remain in place until you have fully healed. Once you have healed, and your jawbone has fused to the posts, the process for creating and placing your final restorations begins.
Dental implants are the most durable technique of tooth replacement since they may last up to 30 years, which is one of its finest qualities. Many individuals may maintain a dental implant for the remainder of their lives. But for an implant to last a long time, regular maintenance is necessary. While there are many benefits of getting dental implants, special care needs to be taken during the recovery process after receiving dental implants, be they single dental implants, multiple tooth implants, or All-on-6 Implants.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants provide several benefits.
| • |
They look, feel, and function exactly like your real teeth.
|
| • |
Your new teeth are very comfortable. They are supported by the posts rather than your adjacent teeth or your gums.
|
| • |
You can brush and floss your dental implants just like your real teeth.
|
| • |
Your teeth are secured in place and will not slip out of place or fall out.
|
| • |
The posts restore stimulation to your jawbone, helping to stop and prevent bone loss in your jaw. |
Are There Disadvantages to Dental Implants?
While there are many benefits that are associated with dental implants, there are a few disadvantages as well. We go over the benefits and drawbacks during your initial consultation to ensure that dental implants are the right treatment for you.
| • |
Implants require surgery.
|
| • |
With surgery, there is a recovery period. This can take several weeks to several months.
|
| • |
If you do not have enough bone mass in your jaw, you may require a bone graft first.
|
| • |
Implants can be more expensive than other options. The need for a bone graft means additional surgery, as well as additional cost. |
History of Dental Implants
The history of dental implants goes all the way back to 2000 BC! Dental implants have advanced over the years. Most of the original practices, however, were painful, barbaric, and sometimes fatal. If you are looking for a dental implant today, you should be thankful. You will experience a safe experience with less discomfort.
How do dental implants work?
Dental implants are oral prostheses that imitate the root of a tooth. These replacement roots offer support and stability to a pontic on the gum line where a tooth had been missing. Dental implants are used to support both permanent and removable artificial teeth or bridges and match the natural color of your teeth. Our dentists in West Linn can perform your dental implant placement.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
As our dentist will tell you, no upper age limit exists for dental implants. Anyone needing tooth replacement can get them, however, you need to have good health and sufficient bone. If you can undergo routine dental procedures such as tooth extraction, then you are likely a perfect fit to get dental implants in West Linn.
However, there are situations when you may be limited to receiving implants. If your bone is insufficient or you have an existing chronic condition such as diabetes and periodontal disease or gum disease, it is very important that you get these conditions treated or managed before proceeding with the dental implant procedure.
Additionally, if you smoke and consume alcohol, you just have to stop the habits. Our dentist will guide you properly on what to do to make sure that the implant procedure is successful. Otherwise, having these conditions and habits does not automatically bar you from receiving implants.
What is the success rate of dental implants?
Dental implants are such a popular choice for tooth replacement because they have up to a 98 percent success rate. Issues with dental implants, or dental failure, are very uncommon occurrences.
How long do dental implants last?
A dental implant is a permanent fixture in the mouth and exists as if you did not lose a tooth at all, and both looks and feels like your natural tooth. Dental implants can last up to 25 years, with the dental crown possibly needing repair or replacement after about 15 years.
Are dental implants safe?
Dental implants are safe. They are commonly made of titanium material modeled to look like a post or screw. That rests lightly inside the jawbone structure but is a strong and durable material. Titanium is most preferred for a dental implant post. It osseointegrates well with the jawbone, encourages natural bone growth, and has minimal to no allergic reactions to the gum tissue. If you have any more questions about dental implants and their safety, be sure to ask our West Linn dentists.
With dental implants, we can restore your abilities to eat and speak while also restoring the quality of your smile and preserving the integrity of your jaw. Call ZenTech Dentistry today at (503) 765-9699 for more information and to schedule your appointment. |
Appointment
(503) 765-9699
