Dental implants
are artificial tooth roots that are surgically implanted into your jaw to support a bridge or replacement tooth. They closely resemble real teeth and do not affect the surrounding teeth. This is because dental implants are specifically intended to replace a missing tooth permanently.
Visit us here at Long Island Smile to learn more about dental implants. We provide single tooth implants, multiple-tooth implants, and full mouth dental implants.
What Would Make You Need a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are the best option if you have a lost tooth or several teeth.
The main goal of tooth replacement is to restore both appearance and function. Many people choose dentures because they are less expensive, although the removable equipment in the mouth is inconvenient.
Dental bridges were popular, but their main disadvantage is that they rely on existing teeth for support. Dental implants are supported by the bone and do not affect the natural teeth around them.
Dental Implant Advantages
There are various benefits to having dental implants.
The most significant benefit of dental implants is that they restore the function of your teeth, allowing you to chew, bite, and eat normally again.
They also enhance your overall look because they look like your real teeth. Consequently, your self-esteem and confidence will rise.
Unlike dentures, which slip, impairing your pronunciation, dental implants do not slip; hence they allow you to speak clearly.
Furthermore, dental implants prevent bone loss, stimulate the jaw, and require no special maintenance; continue with your regular brushing and flossing. In addition, dental implants are long-lasting, with some even lasting a lifetime.
The Procedure for Dental Implants
Several specialists are involved in the dental implant operation, including an oral and maxillofacial surgeon specializing in mouth, jaw, and facial issues.
It also necessitates the services of a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in the treatment of bones and gums, and a prosthodontist, a dentist who designs and fits prosthetic teeth. Furthermore, an ENT specialist may be required for the surgery.
You must first have a full dental exam that includes X-rays and 3D scans. Our dentist will go through your medical history and devise a treatment plan for you based on a variety of factors.
The dentist will inject an anesthetic to control pain during the procedure. It's important to keep in mind that the full process of dental implantation can take many months.
The injured tooth (or teeth) will be extracted first, and the area will be allowed to heal for two months. Jawbone preparation or bone grafting will be done if necessary.
The next stage is implant placement, which involves placing a dental implant in the upper jaw. The process of placing a dental implant is rigorous, and it becomes embedded into the jawbone in the same way real teeth grow from the root.
After that, bone development or healing will occur, followed by abutment installation. Depending on the current bone quality, the recovery period can last up to six months.
Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to confirm that healing is progressing and that no infection has developed. Following that, the artificial tooth will be placed.
What to Expect Following Dental Implant Surgery
Some soreness is to be expected following the surgery. You may also experience mild bleeding, implant soreness, and gum swelling.
Your dentist will prescribe antibiotics and pain relievers to relieve all of these discomforts.
After the procedure, the doctor will suggest you eat soft meals. How long it takes for your mouth to heal after dental implants varies, depending on the patient's capacity to heal, the number of implants, and if teeth must be extracted first.
Dental implants may take anywhere from three to 12 months to be completely healed. Osseointegration (the fusing of the dental implant into the jawbone), and the security that comes with it, take time.
How Does a Dental Implant Compare to a Real Tooth?
You might wonder if dental implants are as good as natural teeth.
The most important part of the dental implant is the titanium post because it is the component that keeps the fixture permanently in place and is as good as the natural tooth.
The osseointegration completes the circle of the dental implant and is the guarantee that you need for your dental implants to last a lifetime. The abutment and the crown will complement the implant to create an almost natural tooth, in both looks and function.
Dental Implant FAQ's
Am I Eligible for Dental Implants?
Most people are eligible to receive dental implants. But if you have lost jawbone, or jawbone deterioration due to missing teeth, bone grafts may be necessary before the implant procedure.
Gum disease and thinning gums may also require a gum graft before you can receive dental implants.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
The actual implants integrated with the jawbone are considered a permanent fixture and can last up to 25 years. The dental crown may need to be replaced after some time. 50-80% of crowns need to be replaced in 15 to 20 years.
Will my Dental Implants Look Natural?
Absolutely. The dental crown, typically crafted from porcelain, is tailor-made. Our dentist will meticulously match the crown color to your existing teeth, guaranteeing the most natural appearance.
Are Dental Implants High-Maintenance?
Not at all. Dental implants are low-maintenance. Simply continue with regular oral hygiene practices like daily brushing and flossing. These implants not only solve aesthetic issues but also address functional and health challenges related to missing teeth.
Dental Implants Long Island
Missing teeth can cause embarrassment, the inability to chew your favorite foods, and difficulty pronouncing certain words. Not replacing missing teeth can increase your chances of developing gum disease and other oral health problems.
We encourage you to contact us at to discuss your tooth replacement needs with our dental team. Give us a call at (516) 243-7473 to schedule your appointment today.
We look forward to giving you a full and healthy smile once again.
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