If you have missing teeth or teeth that are severely damaged, dental implants are going to be your best option to replace them. They are the most natural tooth replacement solution because they are the only dental restoration that closely mimics teeth. Implants are popular among dentists and patients due to their high success rate. Dr. Heather Adams offers dental implants in Rogers, AR. Today, implants are one of the most popular dental services she offers.
Why You Should Replace Missing Teeth
Teeth are essential for aesthetic and health reasons. They have help make your smile look nice but you also need them to bite and chew your food and to speak. If you are missing teeth, you may be too embarrassed to smile or eat around people. These simple things can have a negative impact on your life. Also, if you cannot bite or chew certain foods, it will be hard to maintain a healthy diet.
Tooth loss also causes surrounding teeth to shift which can lead an unbalanced bite. Patients who fail to replace their lost teeth are also at a higher risk of tooth decay, more tooth loss, and bone deterioration. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants provides the best solution for all these problems.
About Dental Implants in Rogers, AR
Dr. Heather Adams provides superior restorative dentistry in Rogers, AR. Her state-of-the-art dental practice offers the latest in dental technology and the most progressive materials and techniques. This allows Dr. Adams to provides patients with quality missing teeth solutions such as dental implant restorations.
Dr. Adams offers coordinated care for dental implants in Rogers, AR. We work with only the best local team of specialists to ensure that your needs are met and results are optimal. Our dental implant treatment plans provide patients with convenient and predictable results.
For patients who may require bone grafting or gum contouring, Dr. Adams will coordinate treatment with local dental specialists on behalf of her patients.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small screw-like post that is typically made out of titanium. This dental fixture must be surgically placed in the jaw bone. Over the course of a few months, the implant will fuse with the surrounding bone. A dental implant acts like a tooth root and provides a durable foundation for replacement teeth.
We can place them along the top or bottom arch. Teeth implants come in various sizes for this reason. They are available in various diameters and lengths to accommodate the different spots they will need to go.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Dental implants have dramatically improved restorative dentistry. They provide patients with a more comfortable, natural, and functional bite after tooth loss.
Tooth loss can often trigger a domino effect of complex dental concerns. Patients with missing teeth are more likely to experience additional tooth loss, bone deterioration, gum recession, and periodontal disease. Patients with missing teeth may also experience difficulty chewing or speaking normally.
Dental implants can restore confidence and help to build a healthy, comfortable, and functional smile. With proper oral hygiene and regular visits to our Rogers AR dentist office, your dental implant secured restoration can last a lifetime.
Dental implants are the only tooth loss solution that can address bone deterioration. Other solution such as dentures and dental bridge do not replace teeth at the root. A dental implant will act as a missing tooth root to provide stimulation for the bone and prevent bone deterioration.
They also will hold the dental restoration firmly in place. Traditional dentures often slip around in the mouth. This can lead to slurred speech, difficulty eating, and sores in the mouth. Implants will eliminate these problems making eating and speaking easier and more comfortable.
Dental Implants: What to Expect
Dental implants are small medical-grade titanium posts. The implants function as a prosthetic root structure designed to fuse with the jaw and stabilize both bone structure and overall oral health.
An oral surgeon will surgically place the dental implants into healthy bone tissue. The placement of the dental implant is a simple surgical procedure. Your dental specialist will use dental sedation or a local anesthetic. Dr. Adams typically coordinates this process with a local specialist. Sedation options include oral conscious sedation and nitrous oxide which will be discussed prior to your procedure.
Once the implant is placed in the jaw, it is left to heal for about 3-6 months. The dental implant engages in a process known as osseointegration. During this time the implant fuses with the jaw bone creating a stable and comfortable oral foundation to support a new dental restoration.
Some patients may get a temporary dental restoration to wear during the healing process. This means you won’t be without teeth as you heal. Once healed, our dentist will cap the abutments to anchor the final restoration in place.
Dental Restoration Options
You will return to our Rogers, AR, dental office so we can fabricate and place your new teeth. Dentists use dental implants to secure dental crowns, dental bridges, and dentures. The number of implants you need will vary based on:
- The number of missing teeth you have to replace
- The location of your missing teeth
- Your jaw bone health
A single lost tooth requires one implant and a dental crown. If you have multiple missing teeth you will need a dental bridge, partial denture, or full denture. These options require two or more implant fixtures. You will need four or more implants to secure a full tooth arch for a denture.
Learn More About Dental Implants
- What Are Dental Implants?
- Dental Implants FAQs
- Benefits of Dental Implants
- Dental Implants Process
- Cost of Dental Implants
- Dental Implants vs Dentures
- Single Dental Implant
- Multiple Dental Implants
Dental Implants FAQs
Patients often have questions about tooth implants and the procedure. We have answers to some of the most common questions about dental implants in Rogers, AR.
Can I get tooth implants if I have gum disease?
If you have gum disease, you need to treat it before getting dental implants. Healthy gums and bones are essential to support implants, and gum disease can jeopardize their success. Our dentist will recommend a thorough cleaning and a treatment plan for the gum disease first. Once your gums are healthy, you can discuss moving forward with dental implants.
How do I know if I have enough bone for a dental implant?
Our dentist will perform an exam that includes X-rays and a CT scan to see if you have enough bone for a tooth implant. We must determine if you have enough healthy bone to anchor the implant. These imaging tests provide detailed views of your jawbone’s density and volume. Our dentist might suggest bone grafting if your bone is too thin or soft.
Will I be awake for my dental implant procedure?
You’ll likely be awake for your dental implant procedure. Most dentists and oral surgeons use local anesthesia to numb the area around the site. If you’re anxious, you can also opt for sedation options to help you during the procedure.
These options range from mild to deep sedation. Many patients often report feeling less discomfort than they expected. As a result, general anesthesia is rarely necessary for standard implant procedures.
How long should a dental implant last?
A tooth implant can last a lifetime with good oral care. The crown on top of the implant may need replacement every 10 to 15 years. This is due to normal wear and tear. Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups helps ensure your implant lasts.
Can I get a dental implant while I am pregnant?
Dentists and oral surgeons generally recommend patients avoid implant treatment while pregnant. This is due to increased risks for both mother and baby. The procedure involves surgery and may require medications that could affect your pregnancy.
You should postpone elective dental treatments until after delivery. The good news is you can start the consultation process while you are pregnant to prepare for the procedure later.
What is the best age for dental implants?
The best age for tooth implants is after the jawbone fully develops, around 18 to 20 years old. The bone structure is stable enough to support the implant at this age. However, adults of any age can benefit from tooth implants with healthy gums and good bone density.
How do I care for my dental implants?
To care for your dental implants, brush them like your regular teeth at least twice daily. Floss between the implants and your other teeth to remove any food or plaque. You can use interdental floss or water flosser to clean your restoration. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
Continue to visit our office for dental cleaning and exams. We will ensure your implant restoration looks healthy and feels comfortable.
Are dental implants safe?
Yes, dental implants are safe. They use strong materials like titanium that work well with your jawbone. Most people don’t have problems, but as with any surgery, there can be risks. These might include infection or issues with how the implant fits. Please let us know if you have any concerns or feel anything unusual.
Schedule A Consultation Today
Learn more about dental implants in our Rogers, AR office. At your appointment, Dr. Adams can tell you which type of implant will work best for your unique situation.
The dentist office of Dr. Adams offers a judgment-free atmosphere so patients feel comfortable coming to us for help. Contact our office at (479) 323-3011 to take the first step in restoring your oral health.