Owings Mills Dentistry
What are Dental Implants?
Implants are a wonderful way to replace one or more missing teeth within the mouth. Implants are made of titanium and are inserted deep into the jawbone. Over the course of a few months, the implant’s post will begin to bond with the surrounding bone. Once this occurs, the implant is a permanent part of your smile and can act as an anchor for crowns, bridges and complete overdentures.
Why would Dental Implants be needed?
The reason you may need or want implants is because you’re currently missing one or more of your natural teeth. Rather than wear a removable prosthetic appliance or having to compromise some of the surrounding teeth, we can easily place implants. These implants are long-lasting and durable, and it’s not uncommon for patients to have them for four or more decades without showing any problems or signs of wear. Your implant offers both restorative as well as cosmetic benefits to your smile.
Who is a candidate for Dental Implants?
Your implant will only heal properly if it has enough bone structure where it has been placed. Because implants undergo a process known as osseointegration, which means that they fuse with the bone, you’ll need healthy bone structure for them to heal. If you’re missing bone in the area where the implant will be placed, we will recommend that you have a bone grafting done. The bone graft is a simple procedure that involves placing bone in an area where it is currently missing.
What happens during the Dental Implant procedure?
The dental implant procedure will start by administering a local or general anesthetic. We then make an incision through the gums and create a hole into the jawbone itself. The post is inserted into this small hole and given time to heal. In about three to nine months, the implant will bond with the surrounding bone. Once this occurs, you’ll be instructed to come back in so that we can make a restoration for over the top of the new implant.
If you would like to learn more about dental implants and how they can benefit your smile, call us today so that we can get you in for a convenient appointment.