What are dental implants?
Dental implants are tiny zirconia posts that are surgically implanted into your jawbone, where they function as artificial tooth roots. Your implant actually fuses to your jawbone as you heal, which provides a strong foundation on top of which Dr. Yoo can place a crown, bridge, or dentures.
Why should I replace my missing teeth?
Your mouth was meant to have all of its teeth working in harmony. Missing teeth can lead to issues like:
- Bone loss or resorption in your jaw
- Teeth shifting out of alignment
- TMJ syndrome
- Altered facial appearance
A smile with all of its teeth keeps the delicate machinery of your mouth functioning properly.
What are the advantages of dental implants?
By replacing your tooth roots, implants protect your smile from many of the complications associated with missing teeth. Your implant prevents bone loss by stimulating your jawbone, and it provides a sturdy foundation for a restoration that can make your smile whole again.
Dental implants also have a number of advantages over other restorations. Unlike crowns and bridges, they don’t require the removal of any enamel. And because they mimic the natural structure of your tooth, they feel natural and don’t require special maintenance, unlike removable dentures.
What’s the process of getting dental implants?
Dental implants require a few visits to Dr. Yoo and some minor surgery. If you’re worried about the procedure or have any dental anxiety, ask Dr. Yoo about sedation dentistry options to keep you relaxed during treatment.
First, Dr. Yoo numbs your mouth with a local anesthetic. Then, he makes a small incision in your gums, drills a hole in your jawbone, inserts your implant, and stitches up your surgery site. Over the next few months, your implant fuses with your jawbone as your gums heal.
After you’ve healed, you return to the office to get your abutment, a tiny post that sticks up out of your gums and connects your restoration to your implant.
The team then takes an impression of your smile that they use to design your restoration. If you’re getting a crown, they can fabricate your restoration on-site that day with a CEREC® machine. If you’re getting a bridge or dentures, Dr. Yoo sends the impression to a lab that finishes your restoration in a couple of weeks. Once your restoration is ready, he seals it in place.
To restore your smile, schedule an implant consultation with Dr. Yoo. Call the office or use the online booking tool.
