Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.
Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile! Dental implants are very strong, stable, and durable and will last many years, but on occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.
Reasons for dental implants:
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Dental implants replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth. They eliminate the need to grind down the adjacent teeth, as would be needed for a bridge or partial denture.
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Dental implants are the closest possible replacement to your natural tooth.
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Dental implants look and function like your own natural tooth allowing you to comfortably eat your favorite foods.
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Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
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Restore a patient’s confident smile.
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Dental implants do not decay and do not need root canal therapy.
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They replace missing teeth and/or ill-fitting dentures.
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Dental Implants improved chewing speech and digesting ability.
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Help preserve the bone and stimulate bone growth and thus prevent future bone loss.
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Restore or enhance facial tissues.
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Dental implants can support a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable. They eliminate problems that you may be experiencing with your dentures such as, slipping and clicking while you talk, or irritation and pain while you chew.
What does getting dental implants involve?
The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.
X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself onto the bone for up to six months. Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. With other implants the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time.
After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete. After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.
Dr. Sarkosh will give you home care instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new implant.
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Joseph Sarkosh DDS • 888 Oak Grove Ave Suite 6 • Menlo Park, CA • 650-327-8081 • Fax: 650-327-8082