Dental Implants

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Dental implants in Alabaster, AL, Gadsden, AL, Anniston, AL, and Carrollton, GA, are advanced dental prostheses that replace missing teeth and restore oral function and aesthetics. Made from biocompatible materials such as titanium, implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and integrate with the bone over time through osseointegration. This integration provides a sturdy foundation for artificial teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures, allowing them to function like natural teeth.

Dental implants offer numerous advantages, including improved chewing ability, speech clarity, and preservation of jawbone structure by preventing bone loss. They also enhance patients' confidence and quality of life by restoring a natural-looking smile and eliminating the discomfort and inconvenience of removable dentures or bridges. 

Types of Dental Implants 

Endosteal Implants 

Endosteal implants are titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone, anchoring artificial teeth such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. They integrate with the bone through osseointegration, providing stable support and mimicking natural tooth roots. The benefits of endosteal implants are: 

• Offer robust support for dental prostheses, ensuring long-term stability and functionality

• Restore chewing ability, speech clarity, and oral function similar to natural teeth

• Stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss, maintaining facial structure and preventing deterioration

• Suitable for most patients with adequate jawbone density, accommodating various restorative needs 

• Improve smile aesthetics and boost self-confidence by providing natural-looking tooth replacements

Subperiosteal Implants 

Subperiosteal implants are a type of dental implant placed under the gum but above the jawbone, custom-made to fit the contours of the patient's jaw. They are used when the patient lacks sufficient natural bone height for traditional implants or cannot undergo bone grafting procedures. The benefits of subperiosteal implants are:

• Suitable for patients with minimal jawbone height or density, avoiding the need for extensive bone grafting surgeries 

• Placement involves a less invasive procedure than endosteal implants, reducing surgical complexity and recovery time 

• Tailored to each patient's jawbone contours, providing a precise fit and stable foundation for dental prostheses 

• Offer firm support for single crowns, bridges, or dentures, restoring chewing function and improving oral health 

• Allow for immediate loading of prosthetic teeth after implant placement, minimizing treatment time and enhancing patient convenience. Call us to learn more.

The Dental Implants Procedure 

Initial Consultation and Treatment Planning 

The journey begins with an initial consultation with one of our qualified implant dentists or oral surgeons. During this visit, your oral health will be assessed through a comprehensive examination, which may include X-rays or CT scans to evaluate bone density and structure. The dentist will discuss your treatment goals, review your medical history, and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Preparation for Surgery 

Before the implant surgery, any remaining damaged or decayed teeth may need to be extracted. Additional procedures, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts, may be performed to ensure sufficient bone structure to support the implants. These preparatory steps are crucial for the long-term success of the implants. 

Implant Placement Surgery 

The implant placement surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure. The dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the underlying jawbone. Using specialized tools, they will carefully create space in the bone for the implant and then gently insert the titanium post into the prepared site. 

Osseointegration 

After the implant is placed, the healing process begins. Over several weeks to months, osseointegration will occur as the jawbone fuses with the implant. This integration provides a solid foundation for the artificial tooth or teeth that will be attached later. During this healing period, temporary restorations may be placed to maintain aesthetics and function.

Abutment Placement 

Once osseointegration is complete and the implant has bonded with the bone, a small connector called an abutment will be attached to the implant. The abutment serves as the link between the implant and the final restoration. It protrudes through the gum line and supports the permanent crown, bridge, or denture.

Restoration Placement 

Finally, the custom-made artificial tooth or teeth will be attached after the gums have healed and the abutment is securely placed. These restorations are meticulously designed to blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth in terms of appearance, function, and comfort.

The Advantages of Dental Implants 

• Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth. They are custom-made to blend in seamlessly with your remaining teeth, restoring your smile's aesthetics and preserving your facial structure.

• Implants become a permanent part of your oral anatomy, eliminating the discomfort often associated with removable dentures. They prevent sore spots and gum irritation, providing a comfortable and natural chewing experience.

• Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and good oral hygiene. They are made from durable materials such as titanium, which integrates with the jawbone and is resistant to decay.

• Unlike traditional bridges that require the adjacent teeth to be ground down for support, implants do not rely on neighboring teeth. This helps preserve the natural tooth structure and prevents bone loss in the jaw.

Dental implants represent a significant advancement in dental technology, offering patients a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution for replacing missing teeth. Visit Community Oral Facial Surgery at our multiple locations: 420 1st St N, Alabaster, AL 35007; 901 Leighton Ave #401, Anniston, AL 36207; 101 Trojan Drive, Carrollton, GA 30117; and 817A Riverbend Dr, Gadsden, AL 35901, to determine if dental implants are right for you and take the first step towards a confident and beautiful smile. Schedule your appointment conveniently online or by calling (205) 208-0167, (256) 236-6090, (770) 832-8819, or (256) 547-5731.