Are you interested in filling the gaps in your smile? Then you’ve come to the right place! Join us at Advanced Family Dentistry with Dr. David Taler as we take a look at what makes dental implants stand apart from other tooth replacement options. From the pieces that make it up, and how osseointegration serves as the backbone to dental implant success, we break down why so many patients choose this treatment for their tooth loss.
A Breakdown of the Implant
First off, let’s take a look at the three pieces of an implant, and what purpose each one serves.
- Titanium Fixture: The fixture is the first piece to be placed in the jawbone, and requires a period of healing that can take a few weeks to a few months. This is due to the process of osseointegration (which you can find more about below). The fixture is shaped like a screw, giving it a way to grip the jawbone; it can also be shaped differently depending on the geography of the missing tooth and the teeth around it.
- Abutment: The abutment is a thimble-shaped piece that is placed over the fixture, once osseointegration is complete. This abutment also serves as a mainstay for the crown restoration to come.
- Restoration: The restoration is essentially the crown that is placed on top of these metal pieces, and is what disguises and protects the implant among your natural teeth. It’s also one of the more customizable of all the pieces, since the crown can be shaped and stained to match your natural teeth perfectly.
How Osseointegration Works
For many patients who come to us seeking dental implants, they often don’t realize what makes dental implants so successful. They assume it’s the shape of the implant or the material we use, but aside from that, the real reason for success lies in the scientific process of osseointegration. So how does this process even work, you may ask?
Osseointegration only occurs when titanium comes into contact with human bones and tissues. Over the course of the healing period of the treatment process, this biocompatible metal triggers the organic tissues around it to weave fibers around it. This is why titanium is so often used in medical and dental devices, because it bonds so well with human bone. When a dental implant (made from titanium) is placed in the jawbone, it triggers this osseointegration process, securing the implant strongly to the bone with a permanent bond. It’s what keeps the implant in place for years to come.
Types of Implants with Dr. Taler
Dental implants can come in all shapes and sizes, and only recently have dental implants been applied to old appliances such as dentures. We also have the ability to give patients a complete implant in a single day. When you consult with Dr. Taler, he may ask about your smile goals, and know that these are options are available for you at Advanced Family Dentistry:
- All-on-4
- Dental Implant Bridges
- Same Day Dental Implants
- Teeth in a Day
- Implant-Supported Dentures (Overdentures)
- Hybrid Dentures
- Implant Partials
- Mini Implants
The Top Three Benefits of Dental Implants
Now that you know what makes dental implants function, let’s take a look at the top three reasons that our patients have loved dental implants.
Longevity
Thanks to osseointegration, dental implants have the ability to last much longer than your average tooth replacement device. Dentures and dental bridges: these don’t have the permanence and lifespan that can be compared to dental implants. If taken care of properly, including brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, your implant has the potential to last a lifetime.
Oral Health
Did you know that osseointegration also triggers the jawbone to regenerate? As the fibers weave around the implant, the jawbone grows in volume and becomes stronger. Patients have found that their jawbones feel stronger, fill out more, and reduce the signs of aging around their mouth and cheeks. Overall, it’s in improvement on your oral health that could last for years to come. Dentures and dental bridges don’t have this advantage at all.
Looks Natural
The crown can be shaped and shaded to match your neighboring teeth accurately, and many patients have found it amusing that friends and family can’t tell the difference between their implant and their real teeth. Dr. Taler will take the time to ensure that your dental implant looks and feels comfortable as well.
Learn More About Dental Implants with Dr. Taler
At Fishers Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, your complete smile and satisfaction is our top priority. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, or explore this infosite for more information about dental implants in Fishers, IN.
