Dental implants are small titanium rods placed inside the jawbone to replace the root of the tooth. It provides support to the artificial tooth and holds it in place. At Alpine Dental Associates, the dentists suggest implants as a permanent solution for patients who have suffered tooth loss.
Advantages of Dental Implants
- Implants enhance the aesthetic appearance of the patient by restoring the missing tooth.
- It helps to prevent bone loss and provides support to the patient's facial structure.
- Dental Implants restore the patient's bite force and resolve speech impairment caused by loss of the tooth.
- By practicing good dental care, the patient can retain the implants for a longer time.
- Implants promote the confidence of the patient regarding their smile.
Dental Implants Procedure
An implant procedure involves various steps.
Dental Examination: The dentist initiates the dental procedure through a complete dental checkup. Digital imaging systems are used to obtain X-rays of the teeth. It provides a clear picture of the mouth and helps the dentist analyze if the patient is a candidate for implant surgery.
Tooth Extraction: Some patients may require the extraction of the damaged or infected tooth. The dentist numbs the extraction site with anesthesia and removes the tooth through a simple or surgical extraction procedure. The patient should undergo a healing period before the next step of the implant procedure.
Implant Placement: In the next appointment, the dentist makes a small incision on the gums. The titanium implant is placed in the jawbone. A healing period of a few weeks is necessary for the implant to fuse with the patient's natural bone structure.
Abutment Placement: After the healing period, the dentist places an abutment over the implant, which helps to hold the artificial tooth in place. Four to six weeks of time is required for the complete healing of the gums. A temporary crown is placed on the abutment until the subsequent appointment.
Crown Placement: The final step of the procedure is to place a dental crown on the abutment, which provides a functional tooth to the patient.
Alpine Dental Associates, located in Omaha, NE, is equipped with modern technologies and the latest amenities that enable the best dental care services for patients. Call us at 402-391-0459 and schedule an appointment with the dentist to know more about dental implants and other services provided at the dental practice.