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Dental Implants at Sage Family Dental, Dorchester, MA
Sage Family Dental, Dorchester, MA, understands how important restoring damaged or missing teeth is. This is not just for aesthetics but also for your overall oral health. Dental implants can be a long-lasting, effective solution to replace missing teeth. They provide you with a natural-looking, functional smile. Our practice, under the direction of Dr. Jean-Marie, offers customized dental implant treatments that are tailored to your specific needs. This ensures you receive the best possible care.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically implanted into the jawbone to replace missing roots. The implant is fused with the bone through a process known as osseointegration, which creates a stable base for replacement teeth such as dentures, bridges, or crowns. Dental implants are a better option than dentures and bridges for replacing teeth. They mimic the natural structure of the tooth, ensuring the same functionality and stability.
Sage Family Dental offers a variety of dental implant options, including single-tooth implants, bridges supported by implants, and full-mouth restorations. These treatments are perfect for those who have lost a tooth or teeth because of injury, decay, or periodontal diseases. Dr. Jean-Marie’s team specializes in tailoring each treatment plan to ensure optimal results and long-term dental health.
Dental Implant: Benefits
Dental implants have several advantages over other tooth replacement options.
- Durability: Implants can last for many years with the right care.
- Increased Functionality: You are able to chew, bite, and speak as you normally would with natural teeth.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Implants blend seamlessly with your smile, making it look and feel like real teeth.
- Bone Health Preservation: Implants are a great way to maintain facial structure and prevent bone loss.
- Dental Implants Don't Damage Adjacent Teeth: Contrary to bridges, they do not modify the surrounding teeth as support.
Dental Implants: The Process
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Step 1: Initial Consultation & Treatment Planning
Dr. Jean Marie will answer any questions that you have during your initial consultation. The team will design a treatment plan that is tailored to meet your needs if you are a candidate for dental implant surgery. The plan could include bone grafting to support the implant if you have a weak jawbone or sinus lifts if you are getting upper jaw implants.
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Step 2: Implant Placement
To ensure comfort, the implant procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia. Dr. Jean-Marie will place the titanium implant in your jawbone. The implant needs time to fuse into the bone after placement. This usually takes several months. During the healing process, you may receive a temporary restoration to maintain your functionality and appearance.
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Step 3: Crown Placement and Abutment
After osseointegration, the abutment, which acts as a connector, is attached to implant. The abutment is secured with a custom-made dental prosthesis or crown. This completes the restoration. The result is an attractive and functional tooth replacement.
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After-Procedure Care and Recovery
The success of your procedure depends on the post-implant care. Dr. Jean-Marie provides specific instructions for aftercare, such as pain management, oral hygiene, and diet suggestions during the healing period. Routine follow-ups are necessary to ensure that the implant heals properly and integrates successfully with the bone.
What does getting dental implants involve?
The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.
X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself for up to six months. Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. With other implants the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time.
After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete. After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.
You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene and eating habits, alongside regular dental visits, will aid in the life of your new implant.
If you have questions about dental implants or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact our office.
Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants can be a great solution for some people, but they are not suitable for everyone. Dr. Jean-Marie evaluates each patient’s oral health, medical history, and circumstances to determine whether they are eligible for dental implants.
Factors that influence the candidate's decision:
- Sufficient Bone Density: Because dental implants are embedded in the jawbone, it is important to have enough bone for the implant. Bone grafting is recommended in cases of low bone density.
- Healthy Gums: Healthy Gums are essential for the success and longevity of dental implants as they support the new teeth. Untreated gum disease must be treated before implants can be placed.
- Good Health Overall: Certain medical problems, such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders, can impact healing and your eligibility for implants. Dr. Jean Marie will review your medical records to ensure that you have a successful result.
- Non-smokers: Tobacco use can cause implant failure and impede healing. Smokers may be told to stop smoking before the procedure.
If you are unsure if dental implants are the right choice for you, Dr. Jean Marie and his team at Sage Family Dental will be happy to perform a thorough examination to determine the best plan of action to restore your smile.
Dental Implants: Maintenance and Care
Dental implants can last a lifetime if they are properly cared for. Sage Family Dental stresses the importance of good oral hygiene in order to maintain the longevity of dental implants. Regular checkups and dental cleanings will help you monitor the condition of your implants and avoid any complications such as infection and bone loss.
Tips for Maintaining Your Dental Implants:
- Daily brushing and flossing: Implants require daily care, just like natural teeth. Brush twice daily and floss every day to prevent gum disease and remove plaque.
- Schedule Routine Dental Visits with Dr. Jean Marie to Monitor Your Implants and Oral Health. Cleanings by professionals can keep your implants in good condition.
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Avoid tobacco and limit the intake of acidic or sugary foods and beverages, which may harm your gums and teeth over time.
- Use a Mouthguard If Necessary A mouthguard is recommended if you are a sportsperson or grind your teeth at night.
Following these simple steps will allow you to maintain your dental implants and enjoy their full benefits for many years. The Sage Family Dental team, led by Dr. Jean-Marie, is committed to maintaining your dental implants and beautiful smile.