Dental Implants Bismarck, ND

What are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a small post that acts as the root of a missing tooth. They are made of titanium and are surgically placed into the jawbone. They act as a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth, such as crowns or dentures, by integrating with the bone over time. Dental implants are a reliable and long-lasting solution to restore missing teeth and improve your smile’s functionality and appearance.

Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Good candidates for dental implants typically include individuals who have:

• Sufficient Jawbone Density: Adequate jawbone density is necessary to support the implant. If the bone is too thin or lacks height, a bone graft may be required to strengthen the area before implant placement.
• Healthy Oral Tissues: The gums and surrounding tissues should be in good health. If there are any signs of gum disease or other oral conditions, they need to be treated before considering implants.
• Missing Teeth or Tooth Loss: Those with one or more missing teeth or at risk of tooth loss are good candidates for dental implants. Depending on the individual’s needs, implants can replace a single tooth or multiple teeth.
• Commitment to Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene practices should include regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. This is essential to maintain the health and longevity of dental implants. Candidates must be willing to commit to proper oral care.
• Overall Good Health: While specific medical conditions may affect the eligibility for dental implants, most individuals in good general health can undergo the procedure. It is important to discuss any existing medical conditions or medications with your dentist.

Dental Implant Process

A dental implant restoration has three different parts to it – the implant (post), an abutment (attachment piece), and the final restoration (tooth). The steps of this process include:

• Initial Consultation: Dr. Crystal will evaluate your oral health, examine your jawbone, and determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. She may also take X-rays or perform other imaging tests to assess your bone structure. Photographs and digital scans of the teeth are also often performed.
• Treatment Planning: If you are eligible for dental implants, Dr. Crystal will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. This includes factors such as the number of implants needed and the type of final restoration.
• Implant Placement: The dental implant placement procedure is typically performed by an oral surgeon. Once that procedure has been completed and the area has healed, it will be ready for us to place the final restoration.
• Restoration Placement: Dr. Crystal will proceed with the abutment and final restoration, such as a crown, bridge, or denture. The restoration is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. This ensures a seamless and aesthetic result.
• Follow-up Visits & Healing: Regular follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure the implants function correctly. Dr. Crystal and her team will provide instructions on oral hygiene practices and maintenance of the implants. The healing time for a dental implant can vary from person to person and depends on factors including the individual’s overall health, the quality of their jawbone, and the specific treatment plan.

Types of Dental Implant Restorations

Single-Tooth Implants – Single-tooth implants, also known as implant crowns, are dental implants that replace a single missing tooth. Single-tooth implants offer a long-lasting solution for replacing a missing tooth, and restoring function and aesthetics. They provide stability, durability, and the ability to chew and speak comfortably.

Implant-Retained Bridges – Implant-retained bridges, also known as implant-supported bridges, are dental prosthetics that replace multiple or all missing teeth. They are supported by dental implants instead of natural teeth or dental crowns. Implant-retained bridges offer several advantages, including improved chewing ability, enhanced aesthetics, and preventing of adjacent teeth from shifting. They provide a durable and long-lasting solution for replacing multiple missing teeth while restoring the appearance and function of your smile.

Implant-Retained Dentures – Implant-retained dentures are dental prosthetics that combine the benefits of dental implants with the convenience of dentures. They are designed to replace a full arch of missing teeth. With implant-retained dentures, you can enjoy the benefits of a complete smile while experiencing increased stability and functionality, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile easily.