Dental implants are widely considered to be the most advanced and effective solution for smile restoration. If you are missing teeth, this tooth replacement option can restore your confident smile and enhance your biting and chewing capabilities, bringing normalcy back to your life. At Saline Oral Facial & Dental Implant Surgery, we proudly offer skilled dental implant placement for residents of Ypsilanti, MI.
Why Are Dental Implants the Preferred Method of Tooth Replacement?
Our practice recommends dental implants over bridges, dentures, and other tooth replacement methods. There are several benefits that implants offer:
- Unlike other tooth replacement options, implants do not require the removal of any healthy, adjacent teeth.
- Because implants stimulate the jaw, they help to prevent any bone loss or unwanted changes to your facial appearance.
- Dental implants look, feel, and are nearly as strong as your natural teeth, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods as normal.
- Dental implants are the longest-lasting option for tooth replacement, making them the most cost-effective.
Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants benefit your oral health and quality of life in more ways than one.
Designed to Last a Lifetime
Dental implants have a famously high success rate, with some clinical literature putting it at more than 95 percent. And, with the proper upkeep and care, your dental implants can potentially last a lifetime without any need for replacement.
Preserves Bone and Facial Structures
Your jawbone requires constant stimulation from the tooth root. Otherwise, it can atrophy and cause your face to change its appearance. Dental implants act as artificial roots, providing this stimulation. No other tooth replacement method on the market can do this.
A Healthier Smile
When you have a bridge or denture put in, it often requires your healthy teeth to be sanded or shaved down, compromising their integrity. Dental implants do not require any of your healthy teeth to be damaged.
Natural Appearance
Your custom replacement teeth will be tailor-made to look and behave like your natural teeth, providing seamless smile restoration.
Ceramic (Non Metal) Dental Implants
Ceramic zirconia implants offer an alternative to conventional titanium implants. These two-piece ceramic zirconia implants, completely devoid of metal, come with a cement-free internal connection. The white material improves their aesthetics and replicates the appearance of natural teeth. With their high-quality craftsmanship and minimal inflammatory reaction, these implants present a dependable solution for ceramic implant needs. Count on Saline Oral, Facial, and Dental Implant Surgery to deliver outstanding oral health results and instill confidence in your smile.
How Do Dental Implants Compare to Other Options?
Though many options exist to address missing teeth, dental implants are typically considered standard-of-care. Our doctor is always happy to discuss different treatments and confirm whether implants are right for you.
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How Will My Surgeon Determine Whether I am A Candidate for Dental Implants?
Your dental implant journey will begin with a one-on-one consultation. You will have a chance to meet with your doctor to go over different treatment options, ask any questions, and confirm your eligibility for a safe, successful procedure.
During this consultation, your doctor will evaluate your teeth and gums, identifying any factors that could complicate the dental implant placement process. This evaluation will involve CT scans to provide a panoramic view of your mouth.
Generally speaking, the best candidates for dental implants:
- Are missing one or more teeth or anticipating the need to have a tooth extracted.
- Do not have any untreated gum disease.
- Do not have any underlying health concerns that would lead to higher surgical risks.
- Have sufficient bone in their jaw.
Note that if you do not have the jaw bone density needed for implant placement, you may still qualify for smile restoration via a bone graft or the use of zygomatic implants. Your doctor will be happy to explain all the options available.
What if I Need a Dental Implants Revision?
In rare cases, an initial implant placement might not be successful. If your implants do not heal properly, you may qualify for an implant revision, which may involve bone grafting, the removal of the failed implants, and the placement of new implants. Our practice is pleased to accommodate this need if you need a second opinion after an initial implant placement.
How Are Dental Implants Placed and Restored?
Depending on your needs, you may need a preparatory procedure to get your mouth ready for surgery. This might mean having unhealthy teeth extracted or regenerating new bone tissue via a bone graft. Following these procedures, you will be ready to schedule your implant placement.
Implant Placement
Implant placement involves the use of full IV sedation, ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the procedure. Once you are completely comfortable, your doctor will carefully place the dental implant into your jawbone. A temporary replacement tooth will be added, ensuring a confident smile while the implants heal.
Abutment Placement
The implants typically take around five or six months to fully heal, fusing with the surrounding jawbone. Once the implants are fully healed, you will return to our office for the placement of a connective piece called the abutment. The abutment is used to securely anchor your replacement teeth in place.
Replacement Teeth
Your final replacement teeth are custom-tailored to look, behave, and be nearly as strong as your natural teeth. Your regular dentist will place the replacement teeth, completing your smile restoration.
Recovery and Aftercare from Dental Implant Surgery
Many patients say that recovery from implant placement is less rigorous than recovery following a tooth extraction. In fact, most patients are ready to resume normal activities within just a day or two and need only over-the-counter remedies like Motrin to manage their discomfort. You can expect to be on a diet of liquids and soft foods at first, transitioning back to a normal diet over the course of a few days.
Options for Full Mouth Restoration Near Ypsilanti, MI
Sometimes restoring a full smile requires more than a single dental implant. In these cases, full-arch solutions like All-on-4 and All-on-X can provide a stable, natural-looking result.
All-on-4 Dental Implants
All-on-4 is a streamlined full-arch implant approach that replaces an entire row of teeth using four strategically placed implants. This option restores your smile with a stable, natural feel while minimizing treatment time and reducing the need for additional procedures.
All-on-X Dental Implants
At Saline OMS, we offer All-on-X dental implants, a flexible full-arch solution that goes beyond the traditional All-on-4 approach. By placing more than four implants when needed, Dr. Fisher can enhance stability and comfort for patients who need a little extra support. The result is a secure, comfortable, and natural-looking smile designed for long-term confidence.
Dental Implant FAQs
Does getting a dental implant hurt?
Patients typically describe the experience as far more comfortable than expected. At Saline OMS, sedation options and Exparel®, a long-lasting non-opiate pain solution, help minimize discomfort during and after surgery. Most patients return to normal routines within a few days.
Do dental implants look natural?
Yes. The implant is paired with a custom crown made by your restoring dentist to match your natural teeth. Once healed, most people cannot tell the difference between an implant and a natural tooth.
What happens if I don’t replace a missing tooth?
Leaving a space can lead to shifting teeth, bone loss, bite changes, and difficulty chewing. Dental implants help maintain jawbone structure and keep your smile aligned.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, implants can last decades. The implant post is designed to integrate with your jawbone, acting as a strong foundation for a crown or full-arch restoration. Routine checkups with your dentist and good oral hygiene help protect your long-term investment.
How soon can I get an implant after a tooth extraction?
Some patients can receive an implant the same day as a tooth extraction if conditions are ideal. Others may need time for the area to heal or may benefit from a bone graft to strengthen the site. Dr. Fisher will review your options during your consultation.
Can I get dental implants if I’ve been missing a tooth for years?
Yes. Even if a tooth has been missing for a long time, you can still be a candidate. In some cases, bone grafting may be recommended to rebuild the jawbone before implant placement. A quick exam with Dr. Fisher will determine the best path forward.
Offering Dental Implants for Residents of Ypsilanti, MI
Dental implants provide a second chance at a complete, confident, and healthy smile. The Saline Oral Facial & Dental Implant Surgery team has the skill and experience needed for successful implant placement. Schedule a consultation at our Saline, MI location at (734) 547-6003.