DENTAL IMPLANTS
Dental implants are artificial replacements for natural tooth roots. Implants are
used in upper and lower jaws. They are made of titanium and other materials
that are well-suited to the human body. They attach to the jaw-bone and gum
tissue to become a stable base for one or more custom artificial replacement
teeth, called dental crown. Dental implants have been used for several decades.
Patients of all ages have chosen dental implants to replace a single tooth or
several teeth or to support partial or full dentures. Dental implant and their
crowns help restore the ability to chew food.
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Without the root structure of a natural tooth the jawbone can shrink making your face look older.
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There are no loose parts. An implant is stable and comfortable.
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Normally, it will serve its owner for life.
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Dental implants LOOK and FEEL like natural teeth.
Dr. Qin Huang has been practicing dentistry both in China and the US for over twenty years. She earned three doctorate degrees in China, Hong Kong and the US. Dr. Huang's extensive experience encompasses extractions, including wisdom teeth, dental implant implacement. Dr. Huang will design, implant and fit the replacement teeth or do restorative work on faulty crowns, renewing your smile and your chewing ability.
The implant process
Treatment generally is a three-part process that takes several months.
In the first step, we surgically place the implant in the jaw, with the top of the implant slightly above the top of the bone. A screw is inserted into the implant to prevent gum tissue and other debris from entering.
The gum then is secured over the implant. The implant will remain covered for approximately three or six months while it is fused with the bone, a process called “osseointegration”. There may be some swelling, tenderness or both for a few days after the surgery, so pain medication usually is prescribed to alleviate the discomfort. A diet of soft foods and warm soup often is recommended during the healing process.
In the second step, the implant is uncovered and we attach an extension, called an abutment, to the implant. The implant and abutment will serve as the foundation for the new tooth. Finally, we make a crown, which has a size, shape, color and fit that will blend with your other teeth. Once completed, the crown is attached to the implant abutment.
Post Implant Care
Although proper oral hygiene is always recommended for maintaining good dental health, it is especially important when a patient has received a dental implant. Bacteria can attack sensitive areas in the mouth when teeth and gums are not properly cleaned, thus causing gums to swell and jaw bones to gradually recede. Recession of the jawbone will weaken implants and eventually make it necessary for the implant to be removed. Patients are advised to visit their dentists at least twice a year to ensure the health of their teeth and implants. Dental implants can last for decades when given proper care.
Are implants right for you?
Who’s a good candidate for implant treatment? You are, if you’re in good health and have healthy gums and adequate bone to support an implant. You must be committed to thorough oral hygiene to keep your mouth healthy and to scheduling regular dental visits. Ask us if implants are an option for you.
Is Old Age a Problem?
Occasionally, old patients express concern that their age may prevent them from enjoying the benefits of dental implants. However, health is more of a determining factor than age. If you're healthy enough to have a tooth extracted, you're probably health enough to receive dental implants. Certain chronic diseases may contraindicate dental implant treatment. The dentist will deterine if you are a candidate for dental implants after a careful evaluation of your dental and health history.
How Will Dental Implants Affect My Life?
Dental implant-supported replacement teeth look, feel and funtion like natural teeth. This means that you can eat and drink whatever you choose. But most imrtantly, dental implants improve quality of life in a very concrete way. People who have felt embarrassed and worried because of their tooth problems are often overwhelmed by what new permanent teeth can do for their self-esteem.
