Missing teeth impact your oral health, but did you know, a missing tooth may inhibit your job prospects? It’s true. A 2012 employment pole indicated patients with one or more missing teeth were less likely to be hired than those with a full, healthy smile. There’s truly no better reason to replace missing teeth than to renew your oral health, but making a positive impression on others is also a compelling argument. Dental implants provide a unique tooth replacement solution. These titanium posts mimic the natural function of tooth roots. Like any other dental care procedure, it’s not right for every patient, but innovations in the techniques, technologies, and materials used mean more patients than ever before can receive complete smile restoration with dental implants.
Your Consultation Visit
Scheduling a consultation is the first step in the dental implant tooth replacement process. During these appointments, a dentist will capture diagnostic scans and examine your smile. This is a great time to ask questions about dental implants and all of your tooth replacement options. If you determine that dental implant restoration is right for you, the dentist will walk you through your unique treatment plan to help you understand the time and cost involved in this treatment.
Surgical Dental Implant Placement
Dental implant tooth replacement is completed in two phases. The first is the surgical implantation of dental implant posts below the gum line. The length and complexity of the procedure depend on the number and position of missing teeth, but the basic process remains the same. A small incision is placed in the gums. Then, the implant post is positioned. A protective cap is attached to the dental implant to protect the surgical site during healing and shape the soft tissue in preparation for the placement of dental restorations.
Abutments and Dental Restorations
Once the dental implant posts have completely fused with the gum and bone tissue, you’ll return to a dental practice to have abutment posts attached to the implants. Depending on your unique situation, the dentists either designs or places the tooth replacement prosthetic on the same day.
Meet Dr. Tetelman
At the Manhattan dental office of Dorian Tetelman, DDS, you’ll experience a different kind of dentistry. Dr. Tetelman and his team are dedicated to offering patients gentle, attentive care that is completely customized to meet their unique needs. Our dental blog is a great place to learn more about the treatments we offer, and it’s also a great way to learn more about our team. If you have questions or want to schedule an appointment, please contact our caring Manhattan dentist and team today.