Dental Implants Q & A

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are the foundations on which Dr. Vasilev at Arnica Dental builds replacements for missing teeth. The implant itself is a titanium screw that goes into your jawbone like a natural tooth root. The implant then fuses with the bone to form a permanent, secure base for a restoration.

When the fusion process is complete, Dr. Vasilev fits a crown onto your dental implant that looks exactly like a natural tooth. You can be sure that crowns designed at Arnica Dental are going to be a precise match for your existing teeth, making your dental implants indistinguishable from real teeth.

You may also attach a bridge or denture to implants if you’re missing multiple teeth next to one another or have to replace all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw.

Dr. Vasilev places dental implants in her office and, dependent on the case, can refer patients to a nearby periodontist if needed.

Why should I consider dental implants?

If you have missing teeth, it can affect the way you feel about yourself, reducing your confidence and making you self-conscious. Missing teeth are more than just an aesthetic issue, though, as without a tooth root in your jaw, the bone can deteriorate over time.

Dental implants are the most effective way of preventing bone loss, as they stimulate the bone just like a natural tooth – something dentures can’t do. You also don’t have the hassle of removing and cleaning implants or need to worry about them slipping out of position as you would with dentures.

The dental implants Dr. Vasilev fits are permanent and extremely secure, offering you the ideal solution to lost teeth.

What does a dental implant procedure involve?

Before undergoing the dental implant procedure, Dr. Vasilev needs to examine your jaw and assess the bone quality and quantity. If your jaw doesn’t have enough good quality bone, you might first need a bone graft.

There are two stages to a dental implant procedure. First, Dr. Vasilev creates an opening in your gum and jawbone, places the implant in position, and sews it into place. It can take between three and six months for the fusion to take place, after which you return to Arnica Dental for the second stage.

Fitting the crown is next. Dr. Vasilev takes great care to ensure the new tooth is a perfect color and size match and in the correct position before attaching it to the implant. In some cases, Dr. Vasilev may use the in-office crown maker to create your crown.

Looking after your dental implants is just like caring for your natural teeth: daily brushing and flossing and regular checkups at Arnica Dental.

To find out how dental implants can restore your winning smile, call Arnica Dental today or book an appointment online.