If you’re looking for dental implants or just want to learn more about how they can help improve your smile and your quality of life, you’ve come to the right place. Our team at Dental Arts of Cromwell in Cromwell, CT, specializes in helping people like you use dental implants to transform their smiles. We invite you to schedule a FREE consultation to learn more about implants and get personalized treatment recommendations. Call today or book online!
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts that are inserted into the jawbone. Over time, the implant integrates with the bone and becomes a permanent part of the jaw. Then, a dental restoration such as a crown or bridge is attached to the implant.
Implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth, several missing teeth, or all of the teeth in an arch (upper or lower jaw, or both). Implants can also support a dental prosthesis such as a denture or removable partial denture.
Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option because they:
- Look and feel like natural teeth
- Are permanently anchored in the jawbone
- Do not involve cutting down any healthy teeth to support a bridge or denture
What Are Single-Tooth Implants?
Implant Surgery
Single-tooth implants are an alternative to wearing a dental bridge or implant-supported denture. They consist of one titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone and allowed to fuse with your jaw. The top of the shaft acts as a replacement tooth root, and over time, bone and tissue grow around the implant, making it inseparable from your natural teeth. A dental crown is then attached to the top of the implant, providing you with a beautiful, natural-looking smile.
Single-tooth implants are a great option for people who are missing one tooth or have a gap in their smile. They are also a good choice for those who don’t want to wear a removable dental appliance, such as a denture. Single-tooth implants can be used to replace any type of tooth, including molars.
If you are considering a single-tooth implant, your dentist will perform a thorough examination to determine if you are a good candidate. You may need to have some bone ridge enhancement procedures, such as bone grafting, before the implant can be placed. In most cases, the implant will be placed in the same dental visit as the bone grafting procedure.
Once the implant has healed and is integrated into your jawbone, your dentist will attach the dental crown. The entire treatment process usually takes between four and six months. Single-tooth implants are a permanent solution and will last for many years with proper care.
What Are Implant-Supported Bridges?
Implant supported bridge
bridge vs. implant
Implant-supported bridges are dental bridges that are connected to implants in the jawbone. This type of bridge is more secure and stable than traditional bridges, and it can last for many years. Implant-supported bridges are a great way to restore your smile if you are missing one or more teeth.
If you are considering an implant-supported bridge, your dentist will first need to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. You may not be a candidate if you have a weak jawbone or other dental problems.
The implant-supported bridge procedure is usually performed in two stages. In the first stage, the dentist will prepare your jaw by creating a pocket for the implant. After completing this stage, you will need to return to the dentist for the second stage of treatment. In this stage, an implant-supported bridge is attached to the implants below your gum line.
Schedule a FREE Consultation to Learn More!
If you’re curious about whether you would be a good candidate for dental implants, we invite you to schedule a FREE consultation with our friendly team to learn more. Call today or book your appointment online!
