Dental Implants: The Leading Choice for Tooth Replacement at Piedmont Family Dentistry

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a revolutionary solution for missing teeth, providing a permanent base for fixed, replacement teeth. Compared to dentures, bridges, and crowns, dental implants are a popular and effective long-term solution for people who suffer from missing teeth, failing teeth, or chronic dental problems. Because they fit, feel, and function like natural teeth, dental implants are quickly becoming the new standard in tooth replacement.

How Dental Implants Work

Dental implants are made up of titanium and other materials that are compatible with the human body. They are posts that are surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw, where they function as a sturdy anchor for replacement teeth. They are inserted into the bone socket of the missing tooth, where the implant fuses with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. Once the implant has bonded with the jawbone, a small connector post — called an abutment — is placed on top of the dental implant to hold and support the new teeth.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants come with numerous benefits that improve not only your oral health but your overall quality of life. Here are some of the advantages:

• Natural Look and Comfortable Fit: Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like your natural teeth.
• Improved Oral Health: Unlike traditional bridgework, dental implants do not require adjacent teeth to be filed down. This helps preserve more of your natural tooth structure.
• Durability: Implants are very durable and will last many years. With good care, many implants last a lifetime.
• Improved Eating and Speaking: Implants are securely anchored, allowing you to eat and speak with confidence.
• Convenience: Implants are maintenance-free and eliminate the embarrassing inconvenience of removing dentures.

Ideal Candidates for Dental Implants

While dental implants are an excellent solution for a wide range of dental issues, they are not suitable for everyone. Dr. Joseph Fennell will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. Factors considered include:

• Adequate Bone Density: Sufficient bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant.
• Good Oral Health: Healthy gums free of periodontal disease are crucial.
• Overall Health: Conditions such as diabetes or heart disease do not automatically exclude you from getting dental implants, but they may impact the healing process.

The Dental Implant Procedure at Piedmont Family Dentistry

The process of getting dental implants may involve several stages, but our team works to make each step as comfortable and efficient as possible. The implant process typically includes:

1. Initial Consultation: Discussion of your dental history, health assessment, and treatment goals.
2. Treatment Planning: Tailored plan using advanced imaging techniques to guide the implant procedure.
3. Implant Placement: Surgical insertion of the implant into your jawbone.
4. Healing and Osseointegration: The bone around the implant heals and integrates with the implant in a process that can take several months.
5. Placement of the Abutment: Installation of the post that will hold the new tooth.
6. Restoration: Once healing is complete, the new teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor.

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh, and enjoy life. For more information about dental implants or to schedule a consultation, contact Piedmont Family Dentistry today. Call us at (864) 227-6911 to learn more about how we can help you smile with confidence again.