What are dental implants?
Dental implants are permanent artificial tooth roots that Dr. Cummings places directly into your jawbone and surrounding tissues to create a stable base for both single and full arch prosthetic teeth, such as dental crowns or dentures.
Unlike alternative options, dental implants are designed to last a lifetime, as they function exactly like your existing tooth roots, securing your prosthetic teeth in place. This allows you to chew, laugh, and smile without worrying about your teeth slipping or cracking.
What can I expect from the dental implant process?
The first step is to create an individualized treatment plan based on your unique needs. Next, any severely damaged or decayed teeth must be extracted from your mouth.
To prepare for the tooth root replacement, Dr. Cummings offers anesthetic options and sedation dentistry for patients who are extra sensitive to pain. Because dental implants are screwed directly into the socket of your missing tooth, jawbone, and surrounding tissues, Dr. Cummings must make sure you have enough bone in place to complete the surgery.
Over the following six to twelve weeks, your jawbone and gums begin to heal, growing around the implant to secure it into place. This provides a perfectly stable base for your prosthetic teeth. Once your mouth has fully healed, Dr. Cummings fits you for a dental crown or full arch of crowns.
How long do dental implants last?
When cared for properly, dental implants can last for the rest of your life. Because they are stable and durable, these tooth root replacements hold your artificial teeth securely into place, allowing you to chew, speak, and smile comfortably.
However, aggressive cleaning or extreme temperature changes can, in some cases, loosen or cause your dental implant to crack. If this is the case, Dr. Cummings performs scans to determine exactly where the problem lies, so she can restore the artificial tooth root or crown that has cracked or loosened over time.
Whether you want to replace a single tooth or full smile arches, Dr. Cummings has the experience and state-of-the-art dental technology to suit all your needs. Call Sterling Ridge Cosmetic & Family Dentistry or book an appointment online today for more information on your dental implant options.
