Are you missing a permanent tooth or teeth? Try dental implants. Dental implants are high-quality dental restorations that replace one or multiple missing teeth. These replacement teeth provide natural tooth function. Dr. Cynthia Elderkin and Dr. Claudel Giggey provide dental implants in Raleigh, NC.
At Stonehenge Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, our dentists create high-quality dental implants with the help of oral surgeons and dental labs. Implants are tooth replacements that create lasting smiles.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a titanium metal post a surgeon places in the jaw bone. Single dental implants consist of a titanium post, abutment, and crown. Implants can also secure bridges and dentures. Dental implants offer the perfect solution for patients with one or more permanent missing teeth.
The Benefits of Dental Implants in Raleigh, NC
Dental implants are the gold standard of tooth replacement for a reason. There are many common advantages of implant treatment. Dental implants:
- Look and feel natural
- Last for many years
- Prevent facial sagging
- Restore a functional bite
- Prevent further bone loss
- Keep remaining natural teeth stable
- Create a solid foundation for artificial teeth
Because dental implants replace teeth at the root, they help prevent many problems caused by missing teeth. After you lose a permanent tooth, you begin to experience jaw recession. Losing your natural jawbone can create a sunken-in appearance. Replacing missing teeth with implants can restore the facial structure and combat facial sagging.
Dental implants are stable tooth restorations that support improved bite function. Compared to removable restorations, implant restorations can significantly improve the bite force. Implant-supported restorations also last longer due to the implant post’s durability. With implants, patients experience fewer speech problems and less difficulty eating.
Implants act as artificial tooth roots. They are biocompatible and support the health of the surrounding teeth and gums. The implant posts themselves are permanent. If you brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly, implant posts should stay in your mouth.
Preparing for Dental Implant Treatment
Before implant treatment, we must ensure patients are good candidates for dental implants. Patients who do not have enough healthy jaw bone in their mouth may require bone grafting. In addition, patients with cavities, gum disease, or other infections will also need treatment. Tooth and gum infections can impact implant stability. We will prepare treatment once we determine you are a good candidate for dental implants.
Can I Get Implants If I Have a Bridge or Denture?
Yes. You can still receive dental implants if you already have a traditional bridge or removable denture. If you notice problems with your restoration, including slipping dentures or bite problems, we may recommend implants. We will also recommend implants if an old restoration requires replacement.
Dental implants ensure bridges and dentures last longer without constant rebasing or replacement. Implants also make it easier to eat harder foods without discomfort or difficulty.
Treatment with Dental Implants in Raleigh, NC
We work with local dental laboratories and oral surgeons to provide dental implants. To begin implant surgery, an oral surgeon will numb the mouth. Then, they place the implant post in the jaw beneath the gums. They will put a healing cap on the implant.
Over a healing period, the implant post fuses with the jaw bone. The implant post will heal gradually over three to six months. We will track your healing progress during this period.
Once your implants fully heal, we will provide your dental restoration. We will find the right restoration for you based on your number of missing teeth. Our dentists will also consider where you are missing your permanent teeth.
We take dental impressions of your teeth and gums for the dental crown, bridge, or denture. If possible, we color-match the false teeth to any remaining teeth. Then, we send these impressions and specifications to a dental lab. After the lab sends back the custom restoration, you will return to our office. We will ensure that the restoration feels and looks natural.
Dental Implant FAQs
Do you have more questions about tooth implants? Some of the most common dental implant questions include:
Am I a candidate for a dental implant procedure?
The best candidates for dental implants are in good oral health. Good implant candidates have enough jaw bone tissue to support the implant posts. We will examine patients’ smiles and take dental X-rays before implant treatment. Then, we will see if patients require a deep cleaning, extraction, or gum therapy.
Additionally, we will recommend bone grafting for patients who do not have enough jaw bone. Bone grafting adds healthy bone tissue to the mouth.
What is the success rate of dental implants?
Dental implants have a success rate of 90 to 95%. In rare cases, implants can fail. Implant failure occurs when implant posts loosen or do not fuse with the jaw bone.
Infections and tobacco use can cause implant failure. We ask that you refrain from smoking or using tobacco products during the implant process. Nicotine can inhibit healing and restrict the blood vessels. Insufficient blood flow can make it difficult for the implant posts to fuse with the jaw bone.
Implants can fail if patients develop gum infections. Gum disease impacts the stability of the implant posts. Alternatively, patients with good oral health routines receive successful implant treatment. Brushing and flossing around the implant will keep it infection-free. Patients who do not use tobacco products will also find success as their implants heal.
How painful are dental implants?
Implant treatment is similar to treatments like dental extractions. You will not feel pain because we numb the treated area during the implant procedure.
Right after dental implant placement and treatment, we recommend over-the-counter pain medications. These medications will help minimize pain and soreness. As the implant posts heal, patients will feel less discomfort. The implant procedure is not painful, as oral surgeons use dental sedation. To learn more about dental sedation, see Sedation Dentistry.
Restore Missing Teeth Today
Are you interested in dental implants in Raleigh, NC? Are you ready to smile with confidence? Contact our North Carolina dental office at 919.295.0936. You can also request a dental appointment on our website.
Our office wants to help you find the best replacement to restore your missing teeth. We offer comprehensive dental care to help patients renew the appearance and function of their teeth.