DENTAL IMPLANTS

A dental implant typically has 3 components:

  1. Implant Screw – provides the foundation for the restoration; either teeth or dentures.
  2. Abutment – provides the connection and the support for the restoration. This attaches to the inside of the screw on one end and to the crown or denture on the other end.
  3. Restoration – The part of the implant that we use for esthetics and chewing
DENTAL IMPLANTS

Implants are a solid treatment option when compared to other methods of treatment like a bridge because they do not require the modification of any otherwise healthy teeth for their support and success. With a bridge, if one of the supporting teeth fails, it usually compromises the whole bridge and leaves for a larger missing space. Studies show that bridges typically become compromised within 10-15 years, where implants are supposed to last a lifetime. But, keep in mind, not all patients are good implant candidates. Regardless of which option you choose, you must be vigilant in keeping the bridge/implant adequately brushed and flossed as well as maintaining your scheduled cleanings and exams.

What makes me a good candidate for dental implants?

  • Most people missing one or more functional teeth
  • Adequate bone height, width, and density. If not, you many need bone grafting and socket preservation (link) prior to implant placement
  • Good oral hygiene
  • Patience

What puts me at risk for my implant failing?

  • Tobacco Use
  • Active Periodontitis (Gum Disease) and Poor Oral Hygiene
  • Uncontrolled Diabetes (HbA1c at or below 6 recommended. The lower, the more well-controlled it is and therefore greater chance of implant success)
  • Missing hygiene appointments
  • Not adequately brushing and flossing around the implant daily
  • Autoimmune Diseases
  • Long-term use of bisphosphonate medications (i.e.- Fosamax)
  • History of Radiation or Chemotherapy
  • Insufficient bone
Dental Implants

Single Tooth Implants

Implant Supported Bridges

Implant Supported Bridges

Implant Dentures

  • Implant-retained: When the denture snaps into place onto the implants. These are meant to be removable by the patient at home for cleaning
  • Implant-supported: These are screwed into a custom milled bar or screw attachment and are only able to be removed by your dentist.
  • Benefits of Implant Dentures vs Traditional Dentures
    • Dental Implants stimulate your bone just like a natural tooth would and help to preserve your bone level. With years of a traditional denture, you’ll see a less and less accurate fit. Without implants, you’ll eventually have bone and tissues shrink and a space between your denture and tissue will develop making for poor fitting dentures.
    • Dental implants provide such a stable foundation so that you will have better biting and chewing power without having to worry about your denture moving around like you may experience with a traditional denture.
Implant Dentures

To find out more about which service options are best for you, please call (810) 687-5040 or request an appointment online.

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