Get Your Smile Back with Dental Implants
Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, and missing teeth can leave you feeling self-conscious and uncomfortable. Fortunately, dental implants can provide a permanent solution that can help restore your confidence and improve your oral health. At our dental office in Franklinville, NJ, we specialize in dental implant procedures that can give you a natural-looking, functional smile. Our team, led by the experienced and knowledgeable Dr. Todd Gottlieb, will work closely with you to develop a customized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and preferences.
How Can Dental Implants Help My Oral Health?
Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option that mimics the function and appearance of natural teeth. Unlike other tooth replacement options, such as dentures and bridges, dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of the missing tooth. This unique design provides several benefits for your oral health:
- Prevents Bone Loss: Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that can prevent bone loss in the jaw. When you lose a tooth, the bone that supported it begins to deteriorate, which can lead to further tooth loss and changes in your facial structure. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and preserving your facial structure.
- Maintains Tooth Alignment: When you lose a tooth, the surrounding teeth can shift out of place, causing bite problems and potential jaw pain. Dental implants maintain the alignment of your teeth, ensuring that your bite remains healthy and your jaw remains pain-free.
- Restores Bite Function: Dental implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods and speak clearly. Unlike dentures, which can slip or shift while eating, dental implants remain securely in place, providing stable and reliable bite function.
Dental Implants
Dental implants consist of three main parts: the implant, the abutment, and the crown. The implant is a small, screw-like post made of titanium that’s surgically placed into the jawbone. Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, the abutment is attached to the implant, which holds the crown, or prosthetic tooth, in place.
At Todd Gottlieb, DMD, we use only high-quality dental implants made by trusted manufacturers to ensure the best results for our patients. Our dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth, giving you the confidence to smile, eat, and speak without any worry.
Mini-Implants
Mini-implants are a smaller version of traditional dental implants that can be used in certain cases, such as for patients with smaller teeth or those who don’t have enough jawbone density for traditional implants. Mini-implants have a narrower diameter than traditional implants, which means they can be inserted into the jaw with less invasive surgery.
Dr. Todd Gottlieb can help you determine whether mini-implants are a suitable option for your specific case during your consultation.
The Dental Implant Process
Consultation
During your initial consultation, Dr. Todd Gottlieb will evaluate your oral health, take X-rays and impressions, and discuss your tooth replacement options with you. If dental implants are right for you, he will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Implant Placement
The first step in the implant placement process is to surgically place the implant into the jawbone. This is done under local anesthesia or other sedation methods to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
Osseointegration
After the implant is placed, a process called osseointegration occurs, which is when the implant fuses with the jawbone. This process typically takes several months, but it ensures that the implant is securely anchored in the jawbone.
Abutment Placement
Once osseointegration is complete, the abutment is attached to the implant. This step requires a minor surgical procedure that involves making a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the implant.
Crown Placement
The final step in the dental implant process is to attach the prosthetic tooth, or crown, to the abutment. Dr. Todd Gottlieb will take impressions of your teeth to create a custom crown that matches the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth. After the crown is attached, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of having a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile.
Dental Implant Candidacy
Dental implants are an excellent tooth replacement option for many people, but they’re not right for everyone. To be a good candidate for dental implants, you should:
Have good oral health: Before getting dental implants, you should have healthy gums and adequate jawbone density to support the implant.
Be committed to oral hygiene: Dental implants require the same level of care as natural teeth, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups.
Have realistic expectations: While dental implants can restore your smile and improve your quality of life, they’re not a quick fix. The implant process takes several months, and the success of the implant depends on proper care and maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many patients wonder if getting dental implants will be a painful process. However, most patients report little to no pain during the procedure. Your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. After the procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort or swelling, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. It’s normal to experience some soreness after the procedure, but this will typically subside after a few days.
One of the benefits of dental implants is that they can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Dental implants are made from durable materials that can withstand the forces of biting and chewing. However, just like natural teeth, dental implants require proper care and maintenance to ensure their longevity. You’ll need to brush and floss regularly, as well as schedule regular dental checkups to ensure the health of your implant. With proper care, your dental implant can last for many years to come.
Yes, dental implants can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. If you have multiple missing teeth, your implant dentist will create a personalized treatment plan based on the number of teeth you need to replace and the location of the missing teeth. For example, if you have several missing teeth in a row, they may recommend an implant-supported bridge to restore your smile.
The cost of dental implants varies depending on several factors, including the number of implants needed, the location of the missing teeth, and the type of implant used. During your consultation, your dentist will provide you with a detailed cost estimate based on your specific needs. It’s important to note that dental implants may initially seem more expensive than other tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges.
However, because dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance, they can actually be a more cost-effective option in the long run. Additionally, many dental insurance plans now cover the cost of dental implants, making them more accessible for patients.
Reclaim Your Smile with Dental Implants
Are you tired of hiding your smile due to missing teeth? Do you long to speak, eat, and laugh with ease? It’s time to reclaim your confidence with dental implants. Your dentist is here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile you’ll be proud to show off. Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back any longer. Take the first step today by calling (856) 694-5555 to schedule a consultation. Together, we can create a personalized treatment plan that will give you the smile you deserve. Don’t wait another day to start living your life to the fullest.