Missing teeth create severe aesthetic and functional problems. A missing tooth can change the whole mouth structure, resulting in shifting teeth, gum problems, and poor chewing function. We offer dental implants to help patients replace missing teeth in Colmar, PA. Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like your own, whether you are missing one, several, or all of your natural teeth.
What Can Dental Implants Do For My Smile?
Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Individuals with lost teeth can smile confidently, knowing that teeth appear natural and facial contours will be preserved. In addition, dental implants can help keep the facial structure. They prevent the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.
Dental implants provide a wide range of tooth replacement solutions, including:
- Single tooth replacement
- Anterior replacement
- Posterior replacement
- Full upper replacement
Types of Dental Implants
A root implant is the most popular and most effective because it mirrors the size and shape of a patient’s natural tooth. This implant is often as strong as the original tooth. The implant or artificial root is placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia and then heals to integrate with the bone. Once the jawbone is attached to the implant, the patient returns to the dental office, where the implant is fitted with the new tooth. This process generally takes anywhere from three to eight months.
Plate-form implants are ideal when the jawbone is not wide enough to support an implant properly. The plate-form implant is a flat, long implant set directly on the jawbone and under the gums. Bone and tissue will eventually grow around this implant, making it more secure. This type of implant is also called an endosteal implant.
We recommend a subperiosteal implant when the jawbone has receded to the point where it can no longer support an implant. Subperiosteal implants are dental implants made out of a metal framework. This metal frame is attached under your gum tissue but above your jawbone. Protruding from the metal frame of the subperiosteal implant are small metal posts.
Dental Implant Treatment in Colmar, PA
Before dental implant treatment, we will thoroughly examine the smile, taking dental x-rays to find tooth gaps and determine if patients require bone grafting treatment. We may recommend bone grafting for patients who do not have sufficient bone tissue to support their dental implants. Our dental office works with local oral surgeons to place the implant posts. The oral surgeon will place the implants in the jaw bone, where the implant posts heal over 3 to 6 months.
This period of healing is called osseointegration. The surgeon will also place healing caps to cover the implant posts. We will take dental impressions to create custom dental crowns, bridges, or dentures for the implants to secure in place. Once the dental implants are fully healed, we will secure the restorations.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to some of our patients’ most commonly asked questions about tooth implant procedures.
What are the advantages of dental implants over other options?
Tooth implants are more durable and long-lasting than bridges or dentures. They prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone, preserve facial structure, and don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support. Implants also look, feel, and function like real teeth, providing better comfort and stability.
Can you get dental implants with severe bone loss?
Yes, but severe bone loss may require a bone graft or sinus lift to rebuild the jawbone before implant placement. These procedures create a stable foundation for the implant. We will assess your bone density through imaging to determine if grafting is necessary.
Can I get a dental implant years after losing a tooth?
Yes, you can get a tooth implant years after losing a tooth, although bone loss may have occurred during that time. You may need a bone graft to support the implant if the bone is insufficient. A thorough evaluation will determine whether you are a delayed implant placement candidate.
Can you get a tooth implant while pregnant?
We generally recommend a tooth implant surgery during pregnancy. Dentists often delay non-urgent procedures until after childbirth to avoid unnecessary stress and potential complications. If treatment is needed urgently, your dentist will discuss safer alternatives or temporary options.
Do you have to go without teeth before getting implants?
No, you don’t have to go without teeth while waiting for implants. Temporary restorations, such as flippers or partial dentures, can be used to fill the gap during the healing process. These options maintain function and appearance until the permanent implant is placed.
How many teeth can I replace with tooth implants?
Tooth implants can replace a single tooth or multiple teeth. They can even replace an entire arch. For multiple missing teeth, implants can support bridges, and for full-arch restorations, treatments like All-on-4 use four to six implants to anchor a complete set of replacement teeth. The approach depends on your specific needs and bone structure.
Restore Your Smile With Implants
Do you need to restore your missing teeth? Are you looking for a way to renew your smile permanently? Call our office for implant treatment today at (215) 774-6702. You can also request a dental appointment with us online.