Dental Implants
A dental implant is used to support one or more false teeth. It is a titanium screw that can replace the root of a tooth when it fails. Just like a tooth root, it is placed into the jawbone.
Implants are a safe, well-established treatment. In most cases, anyone healthy enough to undergo a routine dental extraction or oral surgery can be considered for a dental implant. Patients should have healthy gums and enough bone to hold the implant.
Because dental implants require one or more surgical procedures, our professional team takes into account the following evaluation to prepare for the process:
1. Сomprehensive dental exam of your teeth and jaw (X-rays, 3D images, models)
2. We review your medical history. Our dentists ask about any medical conditions and any medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Firstly, in the dental implant process we develop an individualized treatment plan. Tailored to your situation, this plan takes into account factors such as how many teeth you need replaced and the condition of your jawbone and remaining teeth. The plan addresses your specific needs and is prepared by our professional team who are specially trained and experienced in oral surgery. Our dentists approach provides coordinated care based on the implant option that’s best for you.
Our team will instruct you about eating and drinking before surgery, depending on what type of anesthesia you have. Placing an implant is often easier than taking a tooth out and is usually done using a simple local anaesthetic.
Dental implant surgery is usually an outpatient surgery performed in stages, with healing time between procedures. Usually the false teeth are fitted 3 to 4 months after the implants are put in. Sometimes treatment takes longer and our dental team will be able to talk to you about your treatment time.
The process of placing a dental implant involves multiple steps, including: damaged tooth removal; jawbone preparation (grafting), when needed; dental implant placement; bone growth and healing; abutment placement; artificial tooth placement.
Depending on your situation, the specific procedure done or the materials used, certain steps can sometimes be combined.
A replica tooth or crown is created that best suits your natural teeth (shape and size) and is fitted on top of the fused implant. Our professional dentists also will match the color of the new teeth to your natural teeth.
Because the implant is secured within the jawbone, the replacement teeth look, feel, and function just like your own natural teeth. Unlike other alternatives such as dentures and bridges, implants are a longer lasting solution that allows you to eat, speak and floss like normal.
Looking for a professional dentist that offers dental implants in Salem, MA? Contact our friendly team at Aleris Salem Dental Center in Salem, MA and make an appointment.