Dental implants are a secure, natural-looking option to replace missing teeth. Many patients prefer implants to other prosthetics because they look and feel like natural teeth. Dental implants can renew your appearance, rejuvenate your oral health, and return your ability to eat, laugh, and smile with confidence. As an experienced implant dentist, Dr. Cranham restore smiles and lives with custom dental implants.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a tiny titanium post that mimics a tooth root. One implant is placed in your jaw for each missing tooth, or a few to secure a denture, partial, or bridge. Your jawbone bonds with the titanium to create a strong foundation for a dental crown or prosthetic. Dental implants restore dental structure to make faces appear fuller and more youthful. They also prevent bone deterioration caused by missing teeth.
Are implants right for me?
Adequate jawbone structure is required for implants. Dr. Cranham will perform a comprehensive examination and use the latest digital technology, utilizing the Sirona Galileoes. The Galileoes is a Cone Beam Computerized Tomography (CBCT) which allows us to see your jaw bones three dimensionally. It will provide a guide for the safe placement of your implants.
He’ll also evaluate your health history to assess your candidacy. If you qualify for dental implants, Dr. Cranham will explain the implant procedure and answer your questions. Your concerns are important to us, and our entire team will work closely with you to make your experience a success.
The Implant Process
For most patients, dental implant placement involves two procedures:
First, the metal anchors and small posts are surgically placed into your jawbone to serve as tooth root substitutes and provide stable anchors for prosthetic teeth. The implants sit beneath the surface of the gums while your jawbone gradually fuses with them. This process takes about three to six months. While you heal, Dr. Cranham, your implant dentist, will design your prosthetic teeth.
Once your jaw fuses with the posts, the implants will be uncovered and attach a small healing collar will be attached to your implants. Then, Dr. Cranham will begin making your new teeth. He’ll take a dental impression and attach posts or attachments to the implants to secure your crowns or prosthetic.
The entire implant process usually takes six to eight months, and most patients don’t experience a disruption to their daily lives.
