Implants
If you are suffering from tooth loss and feeling the need to get it replaced, this is a great option to fill in the space.
What are dental implants?
Implants are a replacement option that is the most like a natural tooth. They are placed in the jawbone and topped with an abutment (connects crown to implant) and a crown so they look just like a natural tooth. They can replace a single tooth, provide more stability for a bridge, or lock in dentures.
What is the process?
The implant process takes about a year. If you need an extraction first, we will do that and place artificial bone in the site along with a membrane if you need it. It takes about 3-4 months for that to heal and then we will see you back to place the implant. Placing the implant is the longest part and most intense part of the process. You will be numb for the procedure and Dr. Baker will make an incision in you gum to get to the bone and imbed the implant into your bone. This takes about 1 hour. You will need to rest for a
few days and prepare to eat soft foods. After 4 months we can place a crown on the abutment of your implant. This appointment is usually 30 minutes long and does not require numbing. It is simply placing a crown onto the implant that is exposed above the gum, so you don’t have to worry about enduring another surgical procedure.
Do implants fail?
Unfortunately, it is a reality that your body can reject the implant. The patients that we see this most on are smokers, patients with autoimmune diseases, patients taking bisphosphonates, patients with uncontrolled diabetes, and patients with periodontitis.
Do I still need to brush my implants?
Yes, in fact, since it is a foreign object in your body it takes a lot more diligence to maintain health of implants. You must ensure that you are not chewing on hard objects that aren’t food, quitting or limiting smoking/vaping, brushing and flossing consistently, and getting regular cleanings at Baker Dental.