Implant Dentistry Will Restore Your Smile

For people that have lost teeth   implant dentistry is the solution to regaining their beautiful smile while being able to eat like normal.  This is a permanent solution and once the new teeth have been implanted a patient can go about their life without adding extra steps to their daily routine.

People lose teeth for a variety of reasons including:

• Gum Disease
• Tooth Decay
• Cavities
• Autoimmune Disorders
• Diabetes
• Dementia

Tooth loss can impact people of all ages, and when a tooth falls out, it can damage a person’s self confidence, desire to interact with others, and cause them to be embarrassed.  Fortunately, there is a solution.  Implant dentistry replaces missing teeth while preserving a patients facial structure and appearance.

How Does Implant Dentistry Work?

Small titanium posts are inserted into the jaw bone where the teeth are missing.  The metal anchors and attached posts act like the roots of the tooth.  An artificial tooth is then secured to the post.  This procedure creates teeth that look completely natural and function like a normal tooth.  Patients can eat whatever they want and care for their artificial teeth like they would their natural ones.

The Process

The entire process normally lasts around six to eight months with two dental surgeries. 

• Implants are placed under the gum surface, within the jaw bone.
• Over three to six months these implants bond with the jaw bone.
• Artificial teeth are made.
• Surgery is completed to attach a post to an existing implant and secure the new teeth to it.

Patients will often wear dentures while waiting for the process to be completed.  During this time, they will be able to eat softer foods and regain full functionality after the final surgical step is completed.  Though the process lasts for a while, it should not interfere with a patient’s lifestyle.

Once the new teeth have been implanted patients will have their old smile back, and the confidence that goes with it.  Being able to speak clearly, have self-confidence, and eat normal foods are all benefits of having a full set of teeth. Losing even one tooth can disrupt a person’s life style.  Implant dentistry is the best option for regaining that lovely smile.

Caring for Teeth

It is critical that dental patients take care of their new dental implants and the rest of their teeth.  Oral health impacts the entire body.  Ignoring it will only lead to long term pain and health risks.  There are steps everyone can take to improve their oral hygiene and long term health.

• Brush and floss twice a day.
• Eat green vegetables and other calcium rich foods.
• Eat nuts.
• Visit the dentist every six months.
• Stop smoking.

It is especially important to practice good habits after having dental implants put in.  If some of your teeth have fallen out this puts you at a higher risk for losing additional teeth in the future.  Caring for them now will keep your teeth healthy and you out of the doctor’s chair.

To learn more about implant dentistry call Dr. Pechak at 831-648-8800.