Dental Implant Restorations
Dental implants permanently replace missing teeth. Implants consist of titanium posts, topped with artificial restorations. The posts are surgically placed in the jawbone to function as a tooth "root.” The posts extend from the jawbone through the gums, and are topped with restorations, such as crowns or bridges, that resemble natural teeth both in appearance and function.
If Dr. Bhatt determines you are a suitable candidate for dental implants, she will refer you to an experienced, respected oral surgeon in the area who will place the implant posts. After the surgery, the implant posts need to heal for approximately three to six months. During this healing period (called osseointegration) the titanium post fuses with your jawbone to provide a solid foundation on which to place the artificial tooth restoration. Once the implant post has successfully integrated into the jawbone, and the area is healed, Dr. Bhatt will begin work on your restoration. She may suggest placing a crown, or perhaps a bridge, depending on your needs.
Implants can also be used to secure loose dentures. Dentures placed on the lower jaw often move around and are uncomfortable. Placing just 2 to 4 implants, will allow the denture to literally be snap into place. This will allow you to chew much better, and never have to worry about the denture moving or falling out at an inopportune time. Please view the video below to better visualize how implants can help secure a denture.
