Dental Implants

Restorative dentistry refers to a group of procedures including implants, inlays, onlays, and dentures. These oral devices are called restorations, because they restore the function and appearance of the mouth. In some ways, restorative dentistry overlaps with cosmetic dentistry as the restorations improve appearance as well as treating a condition.

Dental implants used as replacements for the damaged roots of a tooth. They are an improved solution for patients with tooth loss as they are directly attached to the bone. Instead of a bridge or denture, a patient may be a candidate for implants and crowns.

The benefits of implants are that they appear and function just as natural teeth would. They are permanent, so no adhesive is needed and they cannot slip or move during talking or eating. With a bridge, the teeth next to the bridge must be modified to support the bridge. With implants, the integrity of the abutting teeth is not compromised. Implants are very durable and convenient.

Any tooth extractions should be completed prior to the procedure. Local anesthesia is injected into the gum and a small titanium post is placed in the socket where the missing tooth was. The jawbone is then allowed to heal around the post for six to twelve weeks.

After the implant has fused to the jawbone, a small abutment is attached to the top. This is the connector that will be used to create the crown to place on top of the implant.