Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. The dental implant’s shape is a hollow cylinder that is placed in bone and holds a post (an abutment) that supports a crown, bridge or denture. Dental implants are made of titanium, used for many years in joint replacement and extremely compatible with the body. Titanium fuses with bone so dental implants provide an incredibly solid bite for you to chew with confidence.

An implants extreme bond to bone means multiple teeth can be replaced with just a few implants. In fact, a full set of upper or lower teeth can be anchored by as few as four implants, a procedure called All on Four.

If you’ve had a denture for years, you are still a candidate for implants. Bone shrinks when teeth are missing but there are techniques and materials add new bone in the areas for an implant.

Implants can last a lifetime. They are extremely strong, bonded to bone and less likely than natural teeth to be affected by gum disease.

Dr Kriston has years of experience with implants and advanced training in cosmetic dentistry. He designs full mouth replacement teeth, using implants, to create the look and feel of natural teeth.

Dental implants that hold a tooth immediately are called same day or immediate load. Rarely can chewing forces be placed on an implant right away though. Letting the bone grow and mature around the implant, usually two to three months assures its long-term success. It also allows the gums to mature so they don’t recede once the final restoration is in place.

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Reasons for dental implants

Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
Restore a patient’s confident smile.
Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.
Restore or enhance facial tissues.
Support a bridge or denture, making it more secure and comfortable.

What does getting dental implants involve?

The dental implant procedure comes in two stages. First the placement of the implant guided by very concise images and surgery. Implant placement uses 3D imaging and measurements that assure adequate bone will surround the implant. A temporary appliance with replacement tooth hides the implant as it heals below. Stage two is the restoration phase. Dr Kriston makes an impression to create a post and crown, bridge or denture. The final placement of that restoration occurs in as little as two weeks.

Dental implants can be an incredibly affordable way to replace teeth long term. The two-part process allows the expense to be divided over time. The biggest bang for your buck is replacing multiple teeth. It is worth investing in just two to four implants to give a denture the secure feel of chewing on solid teeth.

Many people who have worn dentures wish they implants years ago. A beautiful smile and chewing confidently can be life changing.

If you have questions about dental implants or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact our office.

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