Implant Dentist Replacing Teeth in Tulsa
If you need missing teeth replaced, you have several options. Dentures, crown and bridge work, and dental implants each replace teeth in different ways. Implant dentistry involves the placement of post screws rooted into the jaw bone that acts as the foundation for the replacement of teeth. Dental implants provide greater security and durability than dentures or crown and bridge work.
Implant Placement
The dental implant supported tooth replacement process is completed over two phases. The initial phase of treatment is the surgical placement of the implant posts below the gum line. This surgical procedure is relatively straightforward. We start by making a small incision in the gums. Then, the implant is positioned against the jawbone, and a protective cap is attached to the top of the implant post. This preserves the space for the abutment and replacement tooth.
Implant Retained Crowns & Bridges
Following the surgical placement of implant posts, patients will need to wait three to six months to receive their restoration. During this time, the implant post fuses with the jaw mimicking the natural tooth root structure. Once the implant has fully fused to the jaw, a dental crown or fixed bridge can be attached to replace one to four consecutive missing teeth. A single implant can support one dental crown, or in some cases, it can support two crowns fused together. Otherwise, patients with two to four consecutive missing teeth will need a dental implant at each end of the row of replacement teeth to support the restoration.
Implant Retained Prosthetics
Patients with more extensive tooth loss will need an advanced tooth replacement prosthetic. Partial and full dentures are crafted using a gum colored base material to support numerous replacement teeth. Partials fill gaps in smiles and full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth. We typically need to use between four and six strategically positioned dental implant posts to provide adequate support for the partial or full denture. Unlike traditional, removable dentures that can shift and create discomfort, implant retained dentures look, feel, and function much more like natural teeth.
The Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants provide a predictable procedure to replace missing or soon-to-be-lost teeth, and they stabilize a loose denture or an edentulous arch. Dental implants improve appearance, prevent slipping normally associated with dentures, and make eating easier because they don’t have the potential to slip during chewing. While other forms of tooth replacement often require that the surrounding teeth be modified to make room, dental implants do not. This makes implant dentistry a more conservative option, protecting your long-term oral health.
Marshall Family Dentistry can both place and restore your dental implants. Drs. Ted and Molly consult with you to determine if implant dentistry is the solution for you.