Do you have a single lost tooth or multiple missing teeth? Try dental implants in Owens Cross Roads, AL. We can use dental implants alone to replace single missing teeth. They can also secure dental bridges or dentures for a more permanent dental restoration.
Dr. Elizabeth Duling offers dental implants as a restorative dentistry service to help patients fill gaps in their smiles. She works with a local dental surgeon to surgically place the implants and provides restorations in her office.
The Many Benefits of Dental Implants
If you compare dental implants to other teeth replacement options, they offer many more benefits. Patients will need to weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose the one that best supports their lifestyle, budget, and health. However, dental implants:
- Last for many years
- Restore function to the teeth and gums
- Do not require regular replacement or maintenance
- Look and feel like natural teeth
- Prevent facial sagging and speech issues
- Do not have dietary restrictions
Compared to traditional dental restorations, implants offer improved aesthetics and longevity. While implant treatment can take longer than other treatments, the results are worth it. Dental implants are permanent because they replace the tooth root. Implants can also ensure that crowns, bridges, and dentures last longer without needing replacement.
Are Dental Implants For Me?
Before we begin implant treatment, we ensure you are prepared for dental implants. Good candidates for dental implants have enough jaw bone to support their implants. After you lose permanent teeth, you can also lose healthy bone tissue. In addition, you can experience facial sagging and bite problems due to bone loss.
However, we can recommend bone grafting or sinus lift treatment for patients who need healthy bone tissue. Bone grafting takes healthy bone tissue from one area of the mouth and places it where needed. A sinus lift raises the bone in the sinuses and helps patients with bone loss in the upper arch.
Our office often recommends gum disease treatment, tooth extractions, and root canals before implant treatment. Patients must be in good oral health before they receive implants. Dental implants have high success rates. However, problems like tooth and gum infections are common causes of implant failure.
If you have a bridge or denture, you may wonder if you can get dental implants. Yes, you can receive dental implants even if you have already had a restoration. Contact our office if you have a removable denture or traditional bridge but want a lasting restoration. We will examine your smile and determine how many implants you require. Additionally, we can create a new restoration if you have an old bridge or denture.
Dental Implants in Owens Cross Roads, AL
Before your treatment, Dr. Duling will take dental X-rays and thoroughly examine your teeth and gums. During this examination, she will determine if you require bone grafting, a sinus lift, tooth extraction, or other dental treatment. Additionally, Dr. Duling will consider your budget, dental history, and personal goals before recommending an implant restoration.
For implantation, Dr. Duling will refer you to a local oral surgeon. She will coordinate local implant surgery and provide crowns, bridges, and dentures in her office. During dental implant surgery, your dentist will place the titanium implant screw in the jaw bone. Then, they will place a healing cap to cover and protect the implant post.
It requires 3 to 6 months to heal and fuse with the bone. As the implant post heals, it integrates with the natural jaw bone during osseointegration.
Once healed, we will place the bridge, denture, or dental crown. Dental crowns will secure the metal hardware or prosthetics if they support a bridge or denture. We can also provide same-day dental crowns to our patients using CEREC. We can fabricate implant crowns for patients missing single permanent teeth.
Dental Implants FAQs
Do you want to know more about implant treatment? Read answers to questions that patients frequently ask about dental implants:
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
The best dental implant candidates have healthy teeth and gums. Before implant treatment, we ensure patients have enough bone tissue to support one or more dental implants. However, we can treat patients for problems like tooth decay and gum disease before implant treatment. In addition, bone grafting or a sinus lift can help patients rebuild their bone structure if they have suffered significant bone loss.
Do dental implants need special care?
No, dental implants do not need special care. However, dental implant patients must brush and floss regularly and visit the dentist at least twice a year. Like natural teeth, dental implants require a good oral hygiene routine to stay healthy for years.
What is the success rate for dental implants?
Dental implants have a success rate of over 95%. However, factors like smoking and tobacco use can increase the rate of implant failure. Patients who choose dental implants must refrain from smoking or using tobacco during their implant treatment. Smoking can cause gum disease and inhibit the healing process, which can cause the implants to fail.
What factors go into the cost of dental implants?
The cost of your implant treatment can depend on the number of implants, placement, and type of restoration. You must also consider the cost of treatments you may require before implant treatment. Gum disease treatment, tooth extractions, root canal treatment, and other procedures can add to implant costs.
Learn more about dental implants on our website:
- Additional FAQs about Dental Implants
- Benefits of Dental Implants
- Dental Implant Procedure
- Implant-Supported Crown
- Implant-Supported Bridge
- Implant-Supported Denture
Receive Dental Implants Today
Are you looking for a long-lasting, durable replacement for lost or missing teeth? Try dental implants in Owens Cross Roads, AL. Call Dr. Duling for dental care at 256.202.4186. You may also schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Duling online.
If you have any remaining questions about your implant options, please let Dr. Duling know. She will be happy to help you find the best restoration.