Whether you’ve recently lost a tooth or have experienced tooth loss in the past, we recommend that you schedule an appointment with our Grand Rapids, MI, dental implant dentist. During your consultation, Dr. Nichols will help you explore your tooth replacement options so you can make an informed decision about your smile.
In the meantime, here’s what you need to know about the dental implant procedure and what makes someone a good candidate.
If you’re not already familiar or have only heard about them once before,dental implants are prosthetic tooth roots made of titanium that are surgically inserted into the jawbone to support a porcelain dental crown. Contrary to how dentures and dental bridges rest on top of the gums or rely on adjacent teeth for support, implants provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth by anchoring directly into the jaw.
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This stability allows for improved functionality and appearance, as well as better preservation of jawbone structure over time. The implant procedure typically involves several stages, including placement of the implant into the jawbone, a healing period during which the tooth implant integrates with the bone (osseointegration), and the final attachment of a custom crown, bridge, or implant-supported denture to the post.
A dental implant is a permanent tooth replacement option. Many patients decide to pursue the dental implant process due to the frustrations of wearing dentures full time. For example, it’s not uncommon for dentures to slip while you’re trying to enjoy a meal out in public. While it’s easy to correct slipping dentures (gently bite down and swallow), most people would rather avoid this inconvenience.
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If you have one missing tooth or even multiple missing teeth, our local dental implant dentist may recommend this procedure so you can start smiling with confidence again.
During oral surgery, the is embedded deep in the jaw where it forms a strong, lasting connection with the bone tissue. It’s for this reason that candidates must have adequate bone density in the jaw. Otherwise, we won’t be able to confidently place the implant.
If you don’t have enough bone density in your jaw, fear not. Dr. Nichols may recommend that you get a bone graft to supplement the jawbone tissue you already have. Once you’ve healed from the bone graft, you’ll become eligible for dental implant surgery.
Tired of dentures that slip? Ask Dr. Nichols if you’re a candidate for single-tooth dental implants. Unlike dentures, dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement solution. While the crown that sits on top of the implant will require occasional replacement, the implant itself should last you the rest of your life with proper care.
During your dental implant consultation, Dr. Nichols will evaluate your gum health to determine if you’re a likely candidate for the procedure. The healthier your gums, the more likely your new dental implant will last the rest of your life. We also look for patients who practice excellent oral hygiene at home. This means brushing and flossing every day to eliminate plaque buildup between teeth cleaning appointments.
It’s important to understand that the takes several months, especially if you need a bone graft. It’s not something we can complete in one visit to our Grand Rapids, MI, dental office. For this reason, it’s vital that you understand every step of the process so you know what you’re signing up for and what to expect. Rest assured, Dr. Nichols will be there to guide you every step of the way.
Dr. Michael Nichols is an experienced . To schedule a consultation and learn if you’re a candidate for dental implants, please call Nichols Family Dentistry at (616) 333-8496. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.
This blog post has been updated.
