Implant dentistry is a form of dentistry that uses dental implants as a tooth replacement option to restore one or more missing teeth. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium, which is a metal that is biocompatible and strong. The implants are placed in the jawbone where they will provide strength and stability to support a dental prosthetic. Implant dentistry offers patients many benefits, including:
- Restores chewing function
- Maintains a natural appearance
- Predictability & high success rates
- Preserves the jawbone (prevents bone resorption)
- Helps to maintain the health of remaining natural teeth
At SmileMcLean Dentistry, Dr. Farahi offers the following dental implant options:
All-on-4 Hybrids
An ‘ALL on 4’ hybrid is a porcelain Zirconia base bridge screwed to 4 or more implants. When a patient has lost (or will soon be losing) all their teeth in an arch, this is the best alternative. An all-on-4 hybrid is a hybridization of an implant-retained restoration and traditional dentures. Like a traditional denture, it is designed to replace an entire arch of missing teeth. However, it is supported by four dental implants, like an implant-retained restoration. This means that it is only made to be removed by Dr. Farahi and will remain fixed in the mouth at all times. All-on-4 hybrids are also shaped slightly differently than traditional dentures and do not cover the roof of your mouth. Instead, they resemble an elongated dental bridge. With the placement of 4 or more implants, it is possible to create a prosthesis that is secure, and functions like natural teeth.
Implant Crowns
An implant crown is used to replace a single missing tooth. Once the dental implant has been placed in the jawbone, a tiny metal connector, known as an abutment, will be screwed into the implant. This metal piece will stick out above the gums so that a dental crown can be placed over the top.
Implant Bridges
An implant bridge is similar to a traditional dental bridge and consists of crowns that are fused to one or more fake teeth known as pontics. However instead of being supported by crowns over natural teeth, it is supported by implant crowns.
Implant Overdentures
An implant overdenture, also commonly known as snap on dentures, are traditional dentures that are made to snap onto 2-4 implant abutments. Implant dentures are still removable, like traditional dentures, but they don’t rock, shift, or rub since the implants hold them in place. However, the implants used for overdentures are smaller than traditional implants. This means that while the implants will provide stabilization, they do not fully restore a natural chewing ability.
Candidates
Candidates for dental implants are individuals who have lost one or more teeth and who have enough bone mass in the jaw to properly support a dental implant. This is usually determined through the use of dental x-rays and/or CBCT scans.
The Procedure
Dental implants are surgically implanted into the jawbone. To do this, Dr. Farahi will first make a small incision in the gums to reach the underlying bone. He will then drill the implant into the jawbone. This may be repeated multiple times for all-on-four restorations. Once implanted, the implant will fuse with the bone tissue to provide support for a dental prosthetic. The process of placing an implant takes about 30 minutes to an hour, and sometimes longer depending on how many implants are being placed.
It can take up to three months for your jawbone to heal around the implant, so until that time a temporary dental prosthetic will need to be worn. After the implant has healed, you will be fitted for your permanent restoration and Dr. Farahi will attach the Crown/bridge/overdenture.
Dental implants are an excellent option for people who have lost teeth and want to maintain their dental health. If you’ve been considering a dental implant restoration, schedule a consultation with Dr Farahi at SmileMcLean Dentistry today!