Dental Implants in Aurora
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. They are small, titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. Once the implant has fused with the bone, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant, providing a natural-looking and functional replacement for the missing tooth or teeth. Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth, making them an excellent choice for patients seeking a long-lasting and reliable solution for tooth loss.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Improved Appearance
One of the most significant benefits of dental implants is their ability to improve the appearance of your smile. Because implants are designed to look and function like natural teeth, they blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, providing a natural-looking and attractive result. This can help boost your confidence and self-esteem, allowing you to smile, speak, and laugh without feeling self-conscious about missing teeth.
Enhanced Functionality
In addition to improving the appearance of your smile, dental implants also provide excellent functionality. Unlike dentures, which can slip or move around in the mouth, implants are securely anchored to the jawbone, providing a stable and reliable foundation for biting, chewing, and speaking. This means that you can enjoy your favorite foods and engage in social activities without worrying about your teeth slipping or falling out.
Preserving Jawbone Health
Another significant benefit of dental implants is their ability to preserve the health of your jawbone. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area begins to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. This can lead to a sunken or aged appearance and can also compromise the stability of surrounding teeth. Dental implants, however, stimulate the jawbone just like natural tooth roots, helping to prevent bone loss and maintain the strength and integrity of your jawbone.
The Dental Implants Treatment Process
Consultation and Planning
The first step in the dental implant process is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ryan Duong at Oasis Dental in Aurora. During this appointment, Dr. Duong will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and jawbone to determine if dental implants are the best option for you. He will also take x-rays and 3D scans to create a detailed treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan will include the number of implants needed, the location of the implants, and the type of restoration that will be used to replace your missing teeth.
Implant Placement
Once the treatment plan is finalized, the next step is to place the dental implants. This is a surgical procedure that is typically performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation, depending on your preference and the extent of the procedure. Our Aurora dentist, Dr. Duong, will make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the jawbone, then carefully place the implant into the bone. The gum tissue is then sutured closed, and the implant is left to heal and fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. This process usually takes several months, during which time you may wear a temporary restoration to maintain the appearance and function of your teeth.
Restoration Placement
After the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, the final step is to place the custom-made restoration. Depending on the number of missing teeth and your individual needs, this may be a crown, bridge, or denture. Dr. Duong will take impressions of your teeth to ensure that the restoration fits perfectly and matches the color and shape of your natural teeth. The restoration is then securely attached to the implant, completing the dental implant process and giving you a beautiful, functional new smile.