If you lose a tooth in an accident, or simply have one that has decayed so much that it must be pulled, you need to replace that tooth. Tooth loss leaves unattractive gaps and causes deterioration of the gums and underlying bone. Yet, a partial denture or traditional bridgework doesn’t appeal to you. What’s your alternative? The dental implant from Connolly Aesthetic Family Dentistry in Sewell may be your best option because of its superior aesthetics, function and stability.
The Details on the Dental Implant
The dental implant represents the finest in tooth restoration technology. Increasingly popular because of its stability, appearance and natural feel, the dental implant may be just what you need to restore your smile. Drs. Christopher J. Connolly, John McCarty and Christopher John Connolly offer dental implant restorations as well as traditional tooth replacement choices. They will help you choose your best option.
Composed of a titanium metal screw or cylinder, metal alloy extension post and custom-crafted porcelain crown, the single dental implant replaces a missing tooth from its roots to its crown. Also, when inserted in multiples, dental implants can anchor full or partial dentures and fixed bridgework.
The secret to its success lies in the titanium metal which, when put into the patient’s jaw, bonds to the bone with amazing strength and permanence. The bonding process is called osseointegration. The American Association of Endodontists cites research that shows implants succeed 98 percent of the time. That means the oral surgery itself goes well, and the implants are retained for years–even a lifetime.
To be included in those excellent statistics, an implant patient should be in good general health and needs adequate jaw bone density to receive the implant device. There should be no active gum disease or other oral health issues.
The Dental Implant Process
It begins with an oral examination at Connolly Aesthetic Family Dentistry. Your dentist in Sewell looks for a healthy mouth and strong bone structure by taking digital X-rays and other kinds of imaging. The doctor also considers if the patient generally takes care of his or her oral health with a healthy diet, brushing and flossing and getting semi-annual check-ups and cleanings. While smoking damages oral health, it does not disqualify patients interested in dental implants.
The next step involves a brief in-office surgery with an area oral surgeon. This dentist incises the gums and drills a small hole in the jaw. The dentist then screws the dental implant into the bone and closes the site with sutures.
After several weeks of healing to fully integrate the implant, the patient goes back to Connolly Aesthetic Family Dentistry to receive the metal extension post and porcelain crown. With careful oral hygiene habits at home and follow-up exams and cleanings with Dr. Connolly or McCarty, a dental implant will remain in place and serve the patient for years. Traditional dentures and bridges usually require replacement after ten years.
Can I See an Implant Dentist Near Me?
Yes, you can. Just contact Connolly Aesthetic Family Dentistry for a personal consultation with one of our expert doctors. Dental implants are the next best thing to natural teeth. Why wait to take advantage of this innovative procedure?