Your teeth were meant to last a lifetime, but sometimes they don't. Missing teeth may result in lost chewing ability, headaches, muscle pain, and even changes in facial aesthetics. Additionally, if left untreated, highly undesirable problems with surrounding teeth may arise. Some people hide their smile because of spaces caused by missing teeth, or do not feel confident and have difficulty speaking as a result of ill-fitting dentures.Learn More:
Dental Implants May Be the Answer
We may be able to alleviate damaging issues that can arise when dealing with missing teeth. Dr. Bell and Dr. Affrunti are committed to providing you with a smile you can proudly sustain for a lifetime!
In the oral health field dental implants, while high-tech in nature, are regarded as a more tooth-saving solution than traditional bridgework. The reason is that implants do not depend on neighboring teeth for support.
We can even use dental implants as anchors for bigger dental fixtures like bridges and dentures. Using implants as anchors adds a tremendous amount of versatility to what we offer you in the future.
Dental Implant Procedure
A dental implant can take some time to receive. First we have to ensure that the site of the dental implant has healed properly if a tooth extraction was made. Once the site is ready to receive the implant we can start the procedure.
The first portion of the procedure involves placing a titanium post into your jaw. This post acts as the root of your tooth. Once placed we will allow several months for the site to heal. Because titanium is biocompatible, while the implant is healing the bone in your jaw will actually be growing into and around the post. This not only provides a solid base for the implant, but it also prevents bone loss in your jaw and further ensures your dental health.
Once the post has been allowed to heal and has fully integrated itself into your jaw you can return to our office to have the implant restored. When you return we will place an abutment into the post which simply acts as a surface on which to cement the crown. We will create the crown to fit perfectly into your bite and affix the crown using permanent dental cement which lasts many years.
The end result is a fixture that can easily last decades in your mouth with regular maintenance. Taking care of your implant is as simple as taking care of your natural teeth. Just make sure to brush two times a day and remember to floss!
Are You the Ideal Candidate?
The ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health. It is desirable to have adequate jaw bone to support the implant. The best candidates have healthy gum tissues free of periodontal disease. Smokers are at high risk of dental implant failure so we suggest that you do your best to quit.
Why Wait Any Longer?
Contact us today to see if you may be a candidate for dental implants!
Before After Smile Gallery: Dental Implants
Abutment and Crown
Before
An implant is placed in the jaw bone to act as the root of the tooth and support the future crown.
Phase 1
An abutment is placed on to the implant; it acts as a foundation for the crown to sit upon.
After
The final crown is placed; restoring chewing function.
Congenitally Missing Tooth
Before
This young woman had a congenitally missing permanent tooth.
Phase 1
Radiographic view of the implant and custom abutment.
Phase 2
Custom abutment to support the permanent crown.
After
The final crown viewed from the side.
After
The final crown viewed from the occlusal
Tooth Lost to Deep Decay
Before
This patient lost a tooth due to deep root decay; the view is of the implant and cover screw.
Phase 1
Radiographic view of the implant.
Phase 2
Custom abutment for the crown.
After
Final crown restoration restores form, function and aesthetics.
Tooth Lost to Trauma
Before
This patient lost her front tooth to trauma.
Phase 1
Radiographic image of the custom abutment and implant.
Phase 2
Custom abutment to support the future crown.
Phase 3
Custom abutment and adjacent tooth crown preparation.
After
Final crown restorations.
Congentially Missing Tooth
Before
Radiograph of implant.
Phase 1
Exposed implant.
Phase 2
Implant cover screw.
Phase 3
Radiograph of implant and custom abutment.
Phase 4
Custom abutment to support the crown.
Phase 5
Custom abutment side view.
After
Final implant crown.
Tooth Lost to Deep Decay
Before
This patient had a tooth with a root fracture (note the abscess on the gumline upper right) that needed to be extracted.
Phase 1
Radiograph of implant and abutment.
Phase 2
Abutment to support the permanent crown.
After
A beautiful smile once again!
