Implants

Dental implants are an excellent treatment option for individuals seeking tooth replacement. A dental implant is a prosthetic device surgically placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth or teeth. It is an artificial tooth root, that provides a stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture. Implants may closely resemble natural teeth, both in appearance and function. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.

Implants consist of three main components:

 

  1. Implant Fixture: The implant fixture is a small, screw-like titanium post that is the replacement tooth root. It is surgically placed into the jawbone and integrates with the surrounding bone tissue through osseointegration. This provides a stable foundation for the replacement tooth or dental prosthesis.

 

  1. Abutment: The abutment is a connector piece that attaches to the implant fixture and extends above the gum line. It serves as a support structure for the dental crown, bridge, or denture that will be attached to the implant.

 

  1. Prosthetic Restoration: A prosthetic restoration, such as a dental crown, bridge, or denture, is the visible part of the implant that resembles a natural tooth or teeth. It is custom-made to match the surrounding teeth’ shape, size, and color, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result.

The Process of Getting an Implant:

  1. Initial Consultation: The process begins with an initial consultation at our clinic. During this appointment, the dentist will evaluate the patient’s oral health, take X-rays or scans of the jawbone, and discuss treatment options.

 

  1. Surgical Placement: If the patient is deemed a suitable candidate for dental implants, the surgical placement of the implant fixture is scheduled. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and the implant fixture is carefully placed into the jawbone at the site of the missing tooth or teeth.

 

  1. Healing and Osseointegration: After implant placement, the jawbone needs time to heal and integrate with the implant fixture through osseointegration. This process usually takes several months, during which a temporary restoration may be worn to maintain aesthetics and function.

 

  1. Abutment Placement: Once osseointegration is complete and the implant fuses with the jawbone, a second minor surgical procedure may be performed to place the abutment. This procedure involves uncovering the top of the implant fixture and attaching the abutment.

 

  1. Impressions and Prosthesis Fabrication: After placing the abutment, the implant site is scanned to fabricate the final prosthetic restoration. The dental laboratory creates a custom-made dental crown, bridge, or denture that will be securely attached to the abutment.

 

  1. Final Restoration Placement: Once the prosthetic restoration is completed, it is attached to the abutment, completing the treatment. The final restoration is adjusted for fit and bite comfort, and the patient can enjoy restored function and aesthetics.
  1. Dental implants at our office in  Niagara offer numerous benefits, including improved chewing ability, speech clarity, facial aesthetics, and oral health. With proper care and maintenance, implants can last a lifetime, making them a popular and durable solution for tooth replacement.

Dr. Woo-bae Yi

Dr. Woo-Bae Yi, DDS

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