Dental Implants in Depth Boise & Meridian IDA complete, confident smile is a reflection of good oral health and can significantly impact one's self-esteem and overall well-being. Missing teeth are a common dental concern for many individuals. Unfortunately, you can't regrow teeth you've lost in adulthood, but there are some great options available. Dental implants are a viable treatment solution for the unfortunate circumstance of losing a tooth. What are Dental Implants?Dental implants are designed to replace missing teeth and restore the function and aesthetics of your smile. There are three essential components to implants. The Implant FixtureThe implant fixture is a small post that looks like a screw. It is made of titanium due to the element's compatibility with the human body. It is inserted into the jawbone through a surgical procedure and serves as the artificial tooth root.The AbutmentThe abutment links the implant fixture with the prosthetic tooth or restoration. It is positioned above the gum line.The RestorationThe restorative piece, often a crown, bridge, or denture, is custom-made to match your natural teeth in both appearance and functionality. It is attached to the abutment to complete the implant.Addressing Missing TeethMissing teeth can have a profound impact on oral health, self-confidence, and overall quality of life. Dental implants are a great solution for addressing this issue, providing various benefits.
The Role of an Oral SurgeonThe placement of dental implants is a surgical procedure and is carried out by an expert oral surgeon. The process begins with a comprehensive evaluation to assess your oral health. The surgeon may conduct an X-ray or 3D scan to determine your bone density and the suitability of the jaw for implant placement. They may ask about your dental history, medical conditions, and overall health to create a personalized treatment plan. During the implant placement procedure itself, the oral surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue to reach the jawbone. The implant fixture is inserted into the bone, which becomes the stable foundation for the prosthetic tooth or restoration. The surgical site is then sutured closed. Once the implant has been placed, there are a few months of waiting. This is to let the site heal and for the implant fixture to fuse with the jawbone. This process is called osseointegration and is carried out naturally by the body. Once osseointegration is complete, a second minor surgical procedure is carried out to attach the abutment to the implant fixture. This involves reopening the gum tissue to expose the implant. The abutment is the connection point for the prosthetic tooth or restoration. The final step in the dental implant procedure is the attachment of the prosthetic tooth or restoration to the abutment. This restoration is custom-made and crafted to resemble your natural teeth in shape and color. The end result is a functional and aesthetically pleasing solution. Implant Restoration OptionsDental implant restorations come in various forms, depending on the number of missing teeth and the patient's specific needs. Single Tooth ImplantsUsed to replace a single missing tooth, this option involves a single implant fixture and a customized crown.Implant-Supported BridgesFor individuals missing multiple adjacent teeth, an implant-supported bridge can be an ideal solution. It anchors to two or more implant fixtures, offering stability and durability.Implant-Supported DenturesTraditional dentures can be unstable and uncomfortable for some individuals. Implant-supported dentures, which secure multiple implant fixtures, eliminate these issues while providing a natural look and feel.Full Arch RestorationFull arch restoration, also known as full mouth dental implant restoration, falls under the umbrella of dental implants. It is a comprehensive treatment designed to replace all missing or severely damaged teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. This approach is suitable for individuals who have lost a significant number of teeth or have extensive oral health issues.All-on-4 ImplantsAll-on-4 implants are a popular technique for full arch restoration. This method involves the placement of just four dental implants to support an entire set of teeth. It is known for its efficiency and ability to provide a secure, permanent solution in a shorter time frame compared to traditional implant methods.Implant BridgesImplant bridges combine the stability and longevity of dental implants with the aesthetics of a bridge solution, making them a very effective restoration solution.The bridge is anchored in place by two or more dental implant fixtures, which makes it a lot more secure than a regular bridge. This also means that the implant bridge becomes self-supporting instead of relying on the adjacent teeth. This reduces the stress on natural teeth. Implant bridges are also much more long-lasting than traditional bridge options. They can last a lifetime with proper care, making them a durable and cost-effective choice. They provide superior chewing and speaking capabilities compared to removable dentures and are designed to match your natural teeth. This makes them not only great for functionality but also makes your smile more attractive. Dental Implants at Treasure Valley Oral & Facial SurgeryIf you're looking for experts in dentistry and implants, Treasure Valley Oral & Facial Surgery is available at your service! We are dedicated to providing top-notch dental care for everyone and helping you restore your smile! Schedule a consultation with Treasure Valley Oral & Facial Surgery by calling (208) 343-0909. |