Dental Implants

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are one of the best methods that modern dentistry has for replacing missing teeth. An implant is a small, screw-shaped titanium post that your dentist surgically embeds in your jawbone, where it replaces the root portion of your missing tooth.

The surgery to place dental implants is relatively straightforward, and in most cases, South Hill Family Dentistry only needs local anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure. They also offer sedation like nitrous oxide to help keep you more calm and relaxed during your procedure.

Once the implant is in your jawbone, you wait a few months to heal before your dentist attaches the restoration. During the healing period, your implant fuses with the bone tissue in your jaw, making it an exceptionally sturdy base and structurally similar to a natural tooth root.

Because of the direct connection to your jawbone, dental implants feel comfortable and secure. They also provide your jawbone with healthy stimulation, which helps to preserve the tissue and prevent bone loss. 

How can I replace missing teeth with dental implants?

You have many different options when it comes to replacing your teeth with dental implants, such as:

Replacing a single tooth

When you only need to replace a single missing tooth, your dentist fits your implant with a dental crown. This system closely replicates your natural tooth structure and has one of the highest success rates. 

Replacing multiple teeth

If you need to replace multiple teeth, your dentist can fit your implants with a fixed bridge. In this situation, you don’t necessarily need one implant for every tooth you replace since each implant can support multiple teeth.

For example, if you’re missing three teeth, your dentist might only need two dental implants to support your bridge.

Replacing all of your teeth

Dental implants can also provide an excellent foundation for an implant-supported denture. In many cases, you only need four dental implants to secure an entire arch of teeth.

How do I care for my dental implants?

The beauty of dental implants is that they don’t require special care; they only require regular maintenance, like the rest of your teeth. By brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and maintaining regular cleanings and checkups at South Hill Family Dentistry, you can be sure that your implants last for many years.

Schedule your visit with South Hill Family Dentistry today by calling the office nearest you or booking online, and learn more about how dental implants can give you a full smile and a healthy mouth.