What Is A Dental Implant?

 A dental implant is an artificial root made of titanium metal, proven acceptable by your bone.  The implant is an anchor to hold the replacement tooth/teeth.  Dental implants are secured in the jawbone like tooth roots and are not visible once surgically placed.  They are used to secure crowns (the parts of teeth seen in the mouth), bridgework, or dentures by various means.  Dental Implants are made of titanium, which is lightweight yet strong and biocompatible, which means that the body does not reject it.  Titanium and titanium alloys are the most widely used metals in dental and other bone implants, such as orthopedic joint replacements.  Dental Implants have the highest success rate of any implanted surgical guide.  Currently, the success rate is over 95%.

 

 

 

DENTAL IMPLANTS – TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS at Quail Ridge Dental

By Dr. Steve Calder

 

Our teeth are so important to us every day of our lives. We eat for survival as well as enjoyment. We smile big and brightly when we laugh. A healthy dentition provides us with physical wellness and proper nutrition. It boosts confidence and self-worth.

Many patients who are missing teeth suffer from poor health, low self-esteem, and only smile with their lips closed. Our smiles are the first thing that most people notice about us when we meet. And while many of our teeth can last a lifetime with proper care, some are lost due to decay, fractures, and disease processes such as gum disease, diabetes, and cancers of the jaw and face.

Traditionally, missing teeth were replaced by partial or full dentures or fixed bridges to the remaining teeth. These treatments are still in use today and are reasonable treatment options for many patients. The downside to these treatments, however, is that neither of them prevents bone loss in the mouth the way a natural tooth or dental implant does.

At Quail Ridge Dental, we have incorporated the latest digital technology in order to provide patients with safety and predictability in their dental implant journey.

A dental implant replaces missing tooth roots and allows us to place crowns and bridges and even full dentures that stay in the mouth and are attached to the bone. This stimulates the bone and maintains it while dentures and bridges do not.

At Quail Ridge Dental, we use the latest 3D imaging and digital planning to bring your smile into reality. First, we digitally place the missing teeth into your imaging. Dr. Calder then digitally places the implant. This allows him to visualize your teeth, gums, and bone and plan the case in advance of the surgery. A surgical guide is then printed in our 3D printer that will guide the surgery and placement of the implant.

At your planning appointment, Dr. Calder’s team will take a series of x-rays, create a 3D CBCT, and create digital models of your teeth. Dr. Calder will be able to plan your case and show you what your restored tooth or teeth will look like on the images of your own mouth.

In certain situations, Dr. Calder will work with oral surgeons and prosthodontists when they meet for study club and case presentations. If missing teeth are an issue for you, come see us at Quail Ridge Dental and we will customize a treatment plan that is just for you!