Tooth loss can have serious consequences for your oral health, quality of life, and self-confidence. Left untreated, the condition can lead to a cascade of health problems, including a receding jaw and further tooth loss. Fortunately, Dr. Rene Aviles proudly offers dental implants here at Palm City Dentistry. He can place these small, permanent posts directly in your jawbone during a quick, minimally invasive surgical procedure. When your gums and jaw have healed, you will have a strong, durable base for your custom-created crown, bridge, or denture. To learn more about dental implants, including their costs, the surgical procedure, and how they can benefit you, contact Palm City Dentistry today.
Understanding Dental Implants
Dental implants are made of a titanium implant post which supports an abutment piece and restoration. Whether you are missing one tooth, several teeth, or all of your teeth, implants can be an outstanding restorative option.
Before he places your implants, you will have a complete consultation with Dr. Aviles. He will use our Planmeca ProMax® 3D scanner to obtain a detailed view of your teeth and jawbone structure. This advanced digital imaging system allows him to determine your candidacy for dental implants and plan out the precise placement of your restorations.
The Placement Process
Before the procedure, your gums and jawbone will be numbed with local anesthesia. Although it is not typically needed, if you are feeling especially nervous, we also offer nitrous oxide and prescription medications to ease your anxieties. Once you are comfortable, Dr. Aviles will make a tiny incision in your gums, and place the implant post in the jawbone. During your recovery, which typically takes about four months, your gums and bone will heal around this post so that it becomes a fixed, stable part of your mouth. During this time, Dr. Aviles will provide you with a temporary restoration. Once healing is complete, you will return to the office and the dentist will attach your abutment piece and restoration.
Treatment Benefits
Implants offer a host of benefits including:
- A realistic appearance: Your restoration will be custom fabricated at an outstanding dental lab to be a nearly identical match to your surrounding teeth, and to complement your facial structure. In addition, implant-supported restorations negate the need for obvious adhesives or metal clasps.
- Stability: Because implants are a permanent part of your oral structure, they will never move out of place. You can continue to eat all of your favorite foods, and you can speak, laugh, and smile with confidence.
- Longevity: With proper care, implants can last the rest of your life. Maintenance is easy - you will simply have to brush and floss regularly and attend routine visits to your dentist.
- Oral health: Implants are the only type of dental restoration that can stop the jawbone degeneration that results from tooth loss. Often, they can even help to rebuild and strengthen your bone.
Related Procedures
If you have been missing teeth, you may have lost a significant amount of volume in your jawbone. During a bone grafting procedure, Dr. Aviles can build up your jawbone structure to improve your candidacy for implants. If you need other types of preliminary treatment, like a sinus lift, Dr. Aviles works with a skilled periodontist to meet your needs. Dr. Aviles will determine whether you need any of these advanced options at your initial consultation.
Schedule Your Consultation
We believe everyone deserves a healthy, beautiful smile and can discuss the financing options, including CareCredit℠, that can make implants fit well with your budget. Find out more about how dental implants can restore your smile and oral health. Book an appointment at Palm City Dentistry today.
