Dental Implants
For patients experiencing discomfort with ill-fitting dentures, dental implants provide an effective long term option for achieving a healthier, natural-looking smile.
Schedule a consultation to see if you are a good candidate for dental implant surgery.
Gone are the days when people had to live with bridges that are hard to clean or ill-fitting dentures!
Gone are the days when people had to rely solely on bridges or dentures that may feel unstable or uncomfortable! Dental implants offer a strong, long term solution for patients with one or more missing teeth. Designed to mimic natural teeth, implants work and feel much like a real tooth. Not only do they fit securely, but they also prevent bone loss and won’t develop cavities.
Dr. Gandhi is a proud member of the International Dental Implant Association, and is committed to staying current with the latest advancements in implant dentistry. Schedule a consultation today to learn how dental implant surgery can transform your smile and overall oral health.
Types of Dental Implants
Our family and general dentistry office in Morrisville, NC, offers a range of dental implant surgery options tailored to individual needs:
Endosteal Dental Implants
Endosteal Implants are made from titanium and designed to act as a root substitute, these implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone. Over time, they bond with the bone, creating a stable base for artificial teeth.
Subperiosteal Dental Implants
Subperiosteal dental implants are placed just under the gums, on or above the jawbone, and are ideal for patients who lack sufficient bone mass. This less invasive approach avoids the need for a bone graft.
Types of Implant Procedures
There are several types of implant methods available depending on your situation, such as:
Single Tooth Implants
If you’re missing a single tooth, a single implant can replace missing teeth and restore your smile. This option provides a natural look and feel, filling the gap securely with a replacement tooth that blends seamlessly with your other teeth.
Multiple Implants
If you’re missing a single tooth, a single implant can restore your smile. This option provides a natural look and feel, filling the gap securely with a replacement tooth that blends seamlessly with your other teeth.
All-on-4 Implants
Known as the “hybrid” option, All-on-4 implants provide a full-arch restoration using just four implants to support a complete set of upper or lower teeth. This approach can be more cost-effective and faster than traditional implants, making it ideal for full-mouth restoration.
Immediate Load Dental Implants
Also called “Teeth in a Day,” this technique enables a temporary replacement tooth to be placed immediately after the dental implant surgery. Patients who meet certain bone health requirements can leave the same day with a secure, natural-looking smile.
Two-Stage Dental Implants
In a two-stage procedure, the implant is placed into the jawbone and covered with gum tissue, allowing it to fuse naturally with the bone over a few months. After healing, a second, minor procedure uncovers the implant, and an abutment—a small connector piece—is attached. This abutment provides a secure base for the final crown, bridge, or denture.
Single-Stage Dental Implants
Single-stage implants offer a faster approach by placing the implant and healing cap at the same time, leaving the implant exposed above the gumline. This method takes away the need for a second surgery, so some patients can receive their final crown or denture sooner.
Mini Implants
Mini implants are a smaller option for patients who may have less bone density or prefer a simpler procedure. Often used to stabilize removable dentures, mini implants provide a snug fit without requiring bone grafts or extensive surgery.
How are Dental Implants Made?
Placing the Implant
The dental implant is first inserted into the jawbone at the site of the missing tooth. Made from biocompatible material, the implant fuses with the jawbone over time, creating a strong, stable anchor similar to a natural tooth root.
Attaching the Abutment
Once the implant has bonded with the bone, the dentist attaches an abutment—a small metal piece, usually titanium—that connects to the implant. The abutment will securely hold the final restoration in place.
Placing the Dental Crown
The final step in your dental work involves attaching a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture to the implant. Each restoration is designed to match your preferences, with choices in material, attachment technique, and color, ensuring a natural and seamless look.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer more than just aesthetic improvements: they’re an investment in long-term oral health. With a high success rate and unique properties that allow them to function like natural teeth, implants provide several advantages:
Preserve Bone Health
When a tooth is missing, dental implants act as a support, helping to maintain bone structure and prevent the natural bone loss that can happen over time.
Natural Look and Feel
Made from titanium alloy and other biocompatible materials, implants bond well with surrounding tissues. Once placed, the prosthetic tooth integrates seamlessly with your own teeth, offering a natural look and comfortable fit.
Natural Function and Stability
Implants provide the stability of fixed teeth, giving you the confidence to eat, speak, and smile naturally. For many people, implants feel just like real teeth, restoring comfort and function to everyday life.
Better Oral Health and Hygiene
Implants don’t rely on nearby teeth for support, so they help keep the surrounding teeth healthy and encourage good oral hygiene habits. Unlike traditional bridges, implants stand alone, preserving your natural smile.
A Lasting Solution
With proper care and regular dental visits, implants offer a reliable, long-term option for replacing missing teeth. Many people choose implants because they feel like natural teeth and provide a dependable solution that can last for years to come.
How to Prepare for a Dental Implant
Getting ready for dental implants can help make everything go smoothly. Here are a few easy steps to follow:
How Does the Dental Implant Process Work?
The dental implant process takes time, allowing each step to create a lasting result. Here’s a step-by-step look at how it works:
Initial Consultation
The process starts with a consultation to talk about your goals, the reasons for considering dental implants, and your options. Your dentist will review your oral health to recommend the best plan for you.
Implant Placement
At the first surgical appointment, the dentist places the implant by making small incisions in the gums and positioning it in the jawbone. The initial healing period usually lasts 4–6 months, during which the implant bonds with the bone to form a solid foundation.
Abutment Attachment
Once the implant has bonded with the jawbone, a second appointment is scheduled to attach the abutment (connector piece) to the implant. This abutment will hold the final tooth restoration.
Placement of the Restorative Piece
After about three weeks of healing from the abutment placement, the final restorative piece (such as a crown or denture) is attached to the abutment, completing the process and restoring your smile.
Ready to Explore Your Dental Implant Options?
If you’re considering dental implants to replace missing teeth, we’re here to help! Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and see how dental implants can improve your smile and quality of life. Fill out the form below, and our team will be in touch to set up your appointment.