Implants: Transforming smiles and how we replace missing teeth
Advances in medicine are helping people live longer, healthier lives well into their “golden years.” Generally, an excellent tooth-brushing and flossing habit paired with regular dental checkups helps many of us in Perry, Georgia, and beyond retain our most healthy and natural smiles for life.
However, with time, the teeth and supportive tissues may be unable to “keep up.” In these cases, when you have lost a single tooth, many teeth, or a mouthful of teeth, dental implants at the Wes Park Family Dentistry office can renew your smile, overall health, and quality of life.
What are dental implants exactly?
Implants are characterized as synthetic tooth roots. These small cylinders are surgically positioned and secured in the jawbone. Such “roots” are typically made from a lightweight yet extremely durable metal: titanium. This is the same metal that is used in many other types of implants, from those for hip replacement to knee replacement. It is also well-suited to integrate with the bone and natural tissues. After the implant has effectively become a part of the jawbone, the new tooth is then secured to its new root. It may be attached permanently or can be a removable appliance.
Are implants right for me?
Ideally, implant patients do not smoke. Their mouths are disease-free, and an adequate amount of bone is present in the jaw.
How many teeth can you replace with implants?
A range of different types of patients can benefit from implants due to their versatility. For instance, if you have lost just one tooth, a single implant and one replacement tooth (dental crown) may be in order. If many teeth in a row are missing, then a couple of well-positioned implants may stabilize a non-removable bridge featuring prosthetic/artificial teeth. Likewise, if you no longer have healthy teeth, a complete denture may be permanently secured in your mouth with a few carefully positioned implants.
Why choose implants instead of a conventional bridge or denture?
Traditional appliances are not secure in the jawbone, which contributes to their instability and can result in significant challenges to eating, smiling, laughing, speaking, and otherwise functioning with ease and confidence. Implant-supported teeth also look more like the “real deal,” and they feel and function more like natural teeth. Since they do not rely on other teeth for their support, implants will not compromise the good health of your neighboring teeth later on. Bridges may last years but implants typically last decades or a lifetime with good care. They also keep the supportive bone strong, rendering constant readjustments to the denture appliance unnecessary. The implant-supported denture continues to fit well without relining, rebasing, and other denture services to restore a secure fit.
How do I care for my new teeth?
Your new teeth will need the same consistent and thorough cleaning at home and the good habit of regular dental checkups, just like your natural teeth. When you take better care of these replacements, you set them up for long-term success and lasting health and function. As true partners on this oral health journey, Wes Park Family Dentistry will be with you at every step to make the most of your implant bridges, crowns, and dentures and keep them in top shape. To find out more, schedule a consultation by calling our office in Perry, GA, at (478) 488-3561 today.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are titanium roots, that are replaced with in the jawbone to resemble a tooth or group of teeth. A screw is inserted through the gums and into the jawbone. A porcelain crown is then attached to the screw to become the new tooth or teeth. They can be used to support dental prosthesis including crowns, dentures, and bridges. Today’s treatments are so natural looking, no one will know you had surgery. There’s approximately a 95% success rate for all implants. With modern advances in dentistry, some implants can be restored immediately with life like all porcelain crowns. For more details ask your dentist.
Bryce Westmoreland, DMD
Dr. Bryce Westmoreland earned his BSA in Biological Science with Honors from the University of Georgia and completed his DMD at the Dental College of Georgia, where he also served as Chief Resident during his General Practice Residency. He specializes in implant placement surgeries and restorations and has furthered his expertise through the AAID MAXI course. He and his team are known for their friendly, gentle, and empathetic care, creating a welcoming atmosphere where patients receive the highest quality treatments.
He is a member of the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.