Should I consider dental implants?

Gaps left behind by missing teeth can be embarrassing. If you hide your smile because you are embarrassed by a missing tooth, implant dentistry may be the solution to give you back a smile you can be proud of. Dental implants can be used to hold an artificial tooth in place, or to anchor a dental bridge. We talked more about a dental bridge, which are usually attached to porcelain crowns applied to natural teeth, in a previous post. They are a great option for people missing one or more teeth between other teeth. Implant dentistry offers a more permanent solution.

Implant dentistryWhat are dental implants?

Natural teeth have roots. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is implanted into the jaw to hold an artificial tooth in the same way your natural tooth root held your missing tooth. Modern implants are made of titanium, which allows them to not only hold attractive new artificial teeth in place but also preserve the integrity of existing natural bone. When the integrity of the jawbone is preserved, the potential for future damage that would require further intervention is limited.

How does a dental implant protect the integrity of the jawbone?

The key to modern dental implants’ double usefulness is the material of which they are made. Natural bone can actually bond with titanium, which makes it ideal for various replacement applications. The big word for the process by which structural and functional bonding between metal and bone occurs is osseointegration, from the Greek osteon (bone) and Latin integrare (to make whole). The titanium implant bonds with your jawbone in a way very similar to your natural tooth root. A properly installed implant will preserve the bone of your jaw instead of damaging it.

Is dental implant surgery painful or dangerous?

Although implant dentistry is more invasive than a typical crown application for a dental bridge, advances in implant dentistry over the last decade have made implant surgery simpler and more comfortable, typically only requiring a single surgery performed with a local anesthetic in the relative comfort of your doctor’s office instead of an operating room. It is a simple and safe procedure for most people, but there are some important exceptions.

Who should not consider dental implant surgery?

Individuals who suffer from bleeding disorders are not candidates for dental implant surgery. The same is true for people with uncontrolled diabetes, as these conditions can cause life-threatening complications. Patients receiving radiation treatment or intravenous bisphosphonates should also avoid implant surgery. If you are considering any type of dental procedure, be sure to tell your dentist about any health conditions you have and any medical treatments you are undergoing, as well as any medications you are taking. Be honest about any concerns you have.

Who is a Boston dentist I can trust for implant dentistry?

Watertown Dentistry provides a full range of dental services, from simple cleanings to implant dentistry to complete dentures. Dr. Ray Hanna, DMD and his dental team are committed to providing professional, friendly and thoughtful care to all our patients through every visit, treatment program and procedure. We take the time to answer all your questions and provide the highest quality service. Feel free to contact us to schedule your first appointment.

Call us for more information (617) 600-3442

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