Implants

Dental implants are sophisticated, long-term solutions for replacing missing teeth and restoring oral function and aesthetics. Consisting of a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone, implants act as artificial tooth roots, providing a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth. Over time, the titanium fuses with the jawbone through osseointegration, ensuring stability and durability. Once integrated, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is affixed to the implant, matching the natural color and shape of surrounding teeth.

Dental implants in Muncie, IN, offer numerous benefits, including improved chewing ability, enhanced speech, and preservation of jawbone structure. They also eliminate concerns associated with removable dentures and provide a natural-looking, permanent solution for individuals seeking to regain a confident smile and optimal oral health after tooth loss.

Candidates for Dental Implants

• Candidates should have healthy gums and adequate bone density in the jaw to support the implant. If bone density is insufficient, bone grafting procedures may be necessary to build up the bone structure.
• Maintaining good oral hygiene habits is crucial for the long-term success of dental implants. Candidates should be willing to brush and floss regularly and attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
• Candidates should be in good overall health and free from conditions that may impair healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders. A comprehensive medical history review by our dentist in Muncie, IN, will help determine if implants are a suitable solution.
• Smoking and tobacco use can compromise healing and increase the risk of implant failure. Candidates who smoke may be advised to quit or reduce smoking before undergoing implant surgery.
• Dental implants are typically not recommended for adolescents or young adults whose jawbones have not fully matured. The jawbone must be fully developed to support the implant properly.
• Individuals looking to replace missing teeth permanently and improve their oral function and aesthetics are ideal candidates for implants. Dental implants offer a stable and durable solution that can enhance confidence and quality of life.

Types of Dental Implants

Endosteal Implants

These are the most common types of dental implants. Endosteal implants are surgically placed directly into the jawbone. They typically consist of small screws, cylinders, or plates that serve as artificial roots for supporting one or more artificial teeth (crowns).

Subperiosteal Implants

Unlike endosteal implants, subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum but above or on the jawbone. They are used when natural bone height is insufficient, or patients cannot undergo bone augmentation procedures.

The Dental Implant Procedure

Initial Consultation and Treatment Planning

The process begins with an initial consultation, during which our dentist evaluates your oral health, takes X-rays or CT scans to assess bone density and structure, and discusses your medical history. This thorough examination helps determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. Our dentist then creates a personalized treatment plan based on the number of teeth needing replacement, the condition of your jawbone, and your overall oral health goals.

Surgical Placement of the Dental Implant

Once the treatment plan is established, the surgical phase begins. Under local anesthesia, a small incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the jawbone. Using precise instruments, our dentist carefully drills into the bone and securely places the titanium implant. This implant substitutes the natural tooth root and is designed to integrate with the surrounding bone tissue through osseointegration. After placement, the implant may be covered with a healing cap to protect the site while healing.

Healing and Osseointegration

Over the next several weeks to months, osseointegration occurs as the bone tissue fuses with the implant, anchoring it firmly in place. This integration process is crucial for the stability and long-term success of the implant. During this healing period, you must follow our dentist's post-operative care instructions, including taking prescribed medications, maintaining a soft diet, and practicing diligent oral hygiene to support healing and prevent complications.

Placement of Abutment and Prosthetic Restoration

Once osseointegration is complete and the implant has securely fused with the jawbone, the next step involves attaching an abutment. The abutment is a connector piece that extends above the gumline and provides a foundation for the final prosthetic restoration. Impressions of your teeth are taken to create a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture that blends in seamlessly with your natural teeth in terms of color, shape, and size. The final restoration is then placed onto the abutment, restoring funct

Aftercare and Long-Term Maintenance

After completing your dental implant procedure, maintaining good oral hygiene habits is essential to ensure the longevity and health of your implants. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice daily, flossing daily, and scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Our dentist will monitor the health of your implants and surrounding tissues during these visits to ensure everything remains in optimal condition. Contact us today to learn more.