Dental Implants - Baker City, OR Dentist
Dental implants are considered by most dentists to be the longest lasting, most durable, and most attractive replacements for missing teeth. By replacing the root of a missing tooth as well as the crown, implants are the closest restoration to a natural tooth. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry has stated that implants are the “next best thing to healthy, natural teeth.” Rooted in your jaw, implants are unlikely to need replacement in your lifetime!
The implant itself looks like a small screw, and it functions as the foundation for beautiful dental restorations. Implants securely attach restorations of all sizes to the jaw, from single crowns, to bridges, to dentures. These restorations are generally made from ceramic or another biocompatible material, and are matched to your teeth so they blend right in.
Implant Placement Procedure
Getting an implant from your Baker City dentist does require an initial surgical procedure, where a hole is made in the jawbone, and the implant is carefully placed. Following this, you will wait a few months while the implant takes hold, and will typically be provided a temporary crown or restoration to fill the gap in the interim. Over time, the bone and tissue build up and anchor the implant in a process called ‘osseointegration.’
Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer numerous benefits compared to traditional dentures or bridges. Implants prevent bone loss and maintain the proper relationship between upper and lower jaws. Unlike dentures, which can accelerate bone loss due to their looseness, implants simulate natural teeth, transmitting the necessary stimulation for healthy bone growth. This replication of natural teeth ensures the preservation of facial structure and an enduring smile.
Implants also do not require the alteration of adjacent healthy teeth, like a dental bridge might, thus preserving the overall dental structure. With proper care, dental implants are highly durable and can typically last a lifetime.
Are Dental Implants Right For You?
While a thorough evaluation by our Baker City dentist Dr. Hayden is essential to determine if a patient is a suitable candidate for dental implants, the ideal patient will have:
- Good General Health: Candidates should be in overall good health to undergo the surgical procedure required for dental implants. Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders, might complicate the healing process and require special consideration.
- Sufficient Jawbone Density: Adequate jawbone density is crucial for the success of dental implants, as the implant posts need a solid foundation for osseointegration. Patients with significant bone loss may need bone grafting procedures before implants can be placed.
- Healthy Gums: Healthy gums are essential because periodontal disease can affect the stability and success of the implant. Candidates should have good oral hygiene and be free of active gum disease.
- Non-Smokers: Smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of implant failure. Non-smokers or those willing to quit smoking during the implant process are better candidates for successful implant integration.
- Commitment to Oral Hygiene: Candidates should be committed to maintaining excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits to ensure the long-term success of their implants. Proper care and maintenance are vital to prevent infections and other complications.
If you want to achieve excellent oral health, renewed confidence, and a perfect smile, call your Baker City, OR family dentist today to see if dental implants are right for you!