Dental Implants

Dental implants are effective for lost teeth from injury, disease, or decay. These small, titanium-based posts are inserted into the jawbone to serve as replacement tooth roots for lost teeth. They are then topped with a dental crown or bridge to restore the appearance and function of the missing teeth. 

Implant-supported artificial teeth have high success rates and are the new standard in tooth replacement. Three parts make up a dental implant:

• The implant: a small titanium post inserted into the empty tooth socket.
• The abutment: a small metal piece connecting the implant and crown.
• The dental crown: an artificial tooth matched perfectly to your natural teeth, attached to the implant. 

The first step in the placement of dental implants is to have a consultation with Dr. Jarvis. During this appointment, he examines the patient’s mouth, takes x-rays, and assesses the condition of the jawbone and surrounding teeth. 

Dental implants require a sufficient amount of healthy jawbone to hold them in place. If there is not enough jawbone, a bone graft may be necessary to build up the area before the procedure.

In the next step, the implant is inserted into a small hole drilled into the jawbone. The implant is left to heal and fuse with the surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration which typically takes several months. During this healing period, Dr. Jarvis may fit the patient with a temporary denture or bridge to help them eat and speak while they wait for their permanent restoration.

Once the implant has healed, in a second surgical procedure, Dr. Jarvis places the abutment through the gums, which links the implant to the restoration. Implants can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or a complete upper and lower arch. Learn more about dental implants here.

Dental implants can help restore the appearance and function of the teeth. They also help to preserve the jawbone and prevent the remaining teeth from shifting, which can occur when a missing tooth is not replaced. 

Additionally, because dental implants are fused to the jawbone, they feel, look, and function like natural teeth, which can help to boost self-confidence and overall quality of life. But the benefits go beyond this:

• Improved appearance: With tooth loss comes bone loss. The facial structure changes shape without bone support, making you appear older and gaunt.
• Easy care & convenience: Implants don’t require glue or a cleaning tablet. Oral hygiene is the same as natural teeth.
• Improved oral health: Dental implants can’t get cavities. Nor do they need to be attached to neighboring teeth like bridges, improving oral health significantly.
• Easier speaking: Removable dentures tend to slip and slide in the mouth, causing slurring and mumbling. 
• Easier eating: Implants are so secure in your jaw that they allow you to bite with the same force as natural teeth. You can enjoy all the foods you love once again.
• Bone loss prevention: Bones need constant stimulation from teeth so as not to deteriorate. Dental Implants provide jaw bone stimulation.
• Durability: Other tooth replacement options need repairs or to be replaced entirely. If properly cared for, implants can last a whole lifetime.

Dental Implants require regular maintenance, just like natural teeth, with twice-yearly checkups and cleanings to ensure the implants are healthy and stable. It’s also essential to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease, which can compromise the implant’s health. Follow this link to learn more.

It is important to note that, like with any surgery, implant dentistry does come with a risk, such as pain, bleeding, swelling, and infection. However, these risks are generally low and can be reduced by following proper care instructions and maintaining good oral hygiene before and after the procedure.

If you want to know if you are a good candidate for dental implants, book your appointment at 406.257.5696. At Great Northern Dental, we look forward to speaking with you and helping you rediscover your smile.