Obtaining dental implants has become a much faster process than it once was with the introduction of Teeth-in-a -Day surgery. Rather than take several months and multiple visits, a patient can now have their damaged teeth removed and replaced on the very same visit.
This process offers patients with the comfort of knowing that they will not have to go for weeks without teeth and will have everything taken care of within one doctor’s visit.
Most patients who are either missing teeth or will soon have their teeth removed are eligible for this procedure. Those who are healthy and move ahead with this type of procedure soon after losing their teeth have the highest chance for success. Those interested should consult with an oral surgeon prior to the procedure to learn how it will work for them.
What are Dental Implants?
Regardless of the reason why a person lost their teeth, the use of dental implants is a modern option for people to replace what they lost. The implants will resemble the look and function of their natural teeth.
The implants act as substitute tooth roots, which provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth. Given how implants are placed and secured inside the mouth, they remain in place, allowing the patient the flexibility to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
There are three major parts of the implant, which includes the following:
Implant: This is the root of the new tooth. A titanium screw is inserted into the jawbone and acts as the implant. The length and diameter of the screw depend on the patient and other factors.
Abutment: This is the post for the new crown and is made of either titanium or ceramic. This part is attached to the implant to create the crown of the tooth or the part that people normally see.
Restoration: This is the final product. After the first two pieces are in place, the crown, bridge, or full prosthesis is securely attached in place for a tooth replacement that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth.
How Does Teeth in a Day Work?
To avoid the weeks of traditional dental implants, a patient may elect to go with the Teeth-in-a-Day process. While it is more expensive, it also is the least invasive and time-consuming. To achieve the goal of having new teeth within one visit, an oral surgeon will replace the entire upper or lower set of teeth.
To create the permanent prosthesis, the doctor will use four to six dental implants that will act as the bridge or overdenture for 12 to 14 teeth. The more traditional process requires an implant for each tooth. This plan will work for a variety of options including damaged and missing teeth and provide a long-term, permanent alternative to dentures.
The process begins with a detailed CT scan of the mouth. This will inform the surgeon on where to place the implant. Once the damaged teeth are extracted, the patient is fitted with the prosthetic arch. The gum will eventually heal over this arch and the patient has the option to return for a second visit to obtain a second and stronger prosthetic.
Why Do I Need Dental Implants?
A person will require dental implants when they lose teeth. Implants can be used to replace a single tooth, several teeth, or all of them. One can lose their teeth because of several factors. A lack of care of teeth can lead to decay requiring the removal and replacement of the teeth.
A person can also lose or damage their teeth in an accident when they sustain a severe blow to the mouth. In these instances, they may also have to have their tooth extracted before the oral surgeon can install an implant.
Are Dental Implants the Best Option?
This procedure is truly the best option over dentures and a dental bridge. Implants are the best at achieving the look and feel of a person’s real teeth. They are secured to a person’s bone, meaning they do not have to be removed every night as dentures do. There have also been reports of a loss of taste from dentures.Other advantagesinclude:
- Greater stability: Since the implants are more stable and secure, it will significantly reduce the jawbone resorption that takes place with standard dentures, which have no root-like structure to anchor the bone.
- No sliding: These implants will never slide out of place
- Better chewing: These implants are more effective at chewing, which means patients can maintain a varied diet
Haddonfield Oral Surgeons at Lanzi Burke Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons Get Patients Their Smile Back with Dental Implants
If you have lost one or more teeth and are considering dental implants, the Haddonfield oral surgeons at Lanzi Burke Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons can help you through this long procedure. They will work with you and help to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible. Our surgeons bring a breadth of experience and expertise to help every patient. Call us at 856-582-4222 or contact us online to make an appointment or schedule a consultation. With offices in Washington Township, Haddonfield, and Woolwich Township, New Jersey, we are dedicated to helping patients throughout South Jersey.