6076 Lakeside Commons Drive Macon, GA 31210
6076 Lakeside Commons Drive Macon, GA 31210
Implant Dentistry for Replacement Teeth
Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved so they can smile with confidence.
Dental implants are small titanium posts inserted into the jawbone in areas with missing teeth. These metal anchors serve as substitutes for tooth roots and are surgically placed. The jawbone bonds with the titanium, creating a solid foundation for artificial teeth. Subsequent to implantation, small posts are attached, extending above the gums. These posts provide stable support for replacement teeth. Moreover, implants contribute to maintaining facial structure by preventing bone deterioration associated with tooth loss.
For most patients, dental implant placement involves two surgical steps. Initially, implants are positioned within the jawbone. Over the next three to six months, the implants reside below the gum’s surface, gradually bonding with the jawbone. During this period, temporary dentures can be worn, and a soft diet is recommended. Meanwhile, your restorative dentist is crafting new replacement teeth. Once the implant has bonded, the second phase ensues. The implant(s) are uncovered, and healing abutment(s) are attached, protruding through the gums. The final restorative phase is managed by your restorative dentist. This entire process takes around three to eight months, with minimal disruption to daily life. Leveraging recent dental implant advancements, it’s possible that single stage implants may be utilized. These implants eliminate the need for a second procedure, though they require a minimum of six weeks for healing prior to receiving artificial teeth. There are instances where implants can be placed concurrently with tooth extractions, minimizing surgical interventions. Technological strides even enable immediate loading in select cases, allowing teeth extraction, implant placement, and crown attachment in one visit, simplifying the surgical process.
