What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. These posts provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures, allowing you to speak, eat, and smile with confidence. Unlike other tooth replacement options, implants help preserve bone structure and maintain facial integrity, making them a superior choice for long-term oral health.
Explore our full range of restorative dentistry services to learn how we can restore your smile.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer numerous advantages over traditional tooth replacement methods:
- Natural Appearance and Feel: Implants are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth, seamlessly blending with your existing smile.
- Durability and Longevity: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective solution over the long term.
- Preserves Bone Health: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining the natural shape of your face.
- Improved Functionality: Unlike removable dentures, implants allow you to eat your favorite foods without worry, as they provide the stability and strength of natural teeth.
- Enhanced Oral Health: Dental implants do not require altering adjacent teeth, preserving your natural teeth’s structure.
Learn more about how implants compare to other options like full and partial dentures and dental bridges.
The Dental Implant Process at Palmetto Family Dental
The dental implant process involves several steps, carefully managed by our experienced doctors to ensure optimal results:
- Initial Consultation and Planning: During your initial consultation, we will assess your oral health, review your medical history, and discuss your goals. We may take dental X-rays or 3D scans to evaluate your bone structure and plan your treatment.
- Implant Placement: The implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia or general anesthesia for your comfort. The post integrates with the bone in a process called osseointegration, which typically takes a few months.
- Abutment and Crown Placement: Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, an abutment is attached to the post, which serves as a connector between the implant and the final restoration. A custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is then attached to complete your smile.
- Aftercare and Maintenance: Following implant placement, regular dental cleanings and good oral hygiene are essential to ensure the long-term success of your implants.
If you need additional procedures, such as periodontal therapy or tooth extractions, our team will coordinate your care to prepare you for implant surgery.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
Dental implants are a suitable option for most adults who have lost one or more teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury. Ideal candidates should have healthy gums and sufficient bone density to support the implant. If you’re unsure whether implants are right for you, our team will conduct a thorough evaluation and discuss the best treatment options based on your individual needs.
For patients with complex cases, our expertise in dental implant restoration ensures that you receive the most appropriate care tailored to your situation.
Convenient Locations and Expert Care
Palmetto Family Dental proudly serves the communities of Fayetteville, McDonough, Palmetto, and Zebulon. Our skilled team is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care in a welcoming environment. Visit our locations page to find the office nearest you.