Dental Implants

There are various ways that people lose their natural teeth, ranging from injury to infection. It can be challenging to deal with the loss of your teeth, both cosmetically and because of health concerns. Fortunately, dental implants are one of the most effective ways to replace missing teeth to improve oral health and restore the patient’s smile. One of the most significant advantages of this procedure is that the implants look no different than natural teeth and provide long-term support for the patient’s oral health.

At Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group, we understand the power of a good smile. We know that our patients need oral specialists who care about their oral health and their smiles. When it comes to patient care, Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group is unmatched. Start your journey towards improving your oral health today with dental implants by learning about dental implant surgery and how it may benefit you.

An Overview of Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implant surgery is performed to replace tooth roots with metal, screw-like posts that function and look like natural teeth. Dental implants in Elizabeth, NJ are often preferred to dentures or bridgework, which don’t fit as well and may not last as long or be as cosmetically pleasing.

How dental implant surgery is performed depends on the type of implant used and the conditions of the jawbone. Furthermore, dental implants may involve several procedures to create more support for the implant. Dental implant surgery is usually performed in stages with healing time between procedures. The process involves multiple steps, including:

• Damaged tooth removal
• Jawbone preparation—grafting (when needed)
• Dental implant placement
• Bone growth and healing
• Abutment placement
• Artificial tooth placement

The entire process may take months from start to finish. Most of that time is devoted to healing and waiting for the growth of new bone in the jaw. 

Every patient is unique. Therefore, the approach to their dental implant must be catered to their needs. At Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group, we understand the importance of approaching each situation with careful attention to detail. We are committed to providing our patients with the personalized care and treatment they need. 

Reasons for Dental Implants

If you have recently had a tooth removed, getting a dental implant may be a primary reason to preserve your oral health. Without it, you might experience jawbone deterioration, which can change your facial structure. Implants are ideally placed soon after a tooth is extracted.

Teeth rely on their roots and neighboring teeth for support. Losing a tooth causes surrounding teeth to shift, become unstable, and potentially fall out. Dental implants can prevent this by supporting the surrounding teeth, allowing you to smile confidently.

Implants help prevent:

• Jawbone loss
• Changes in facial structure
• Additional tooth loss
• Problems with dentures
• Self-consciousness about your smile

Another reason to get dental implants is if you are already wearing dentures. Dentures rest on your gums and do not stop the jawbone from deteriorating. Conversely, implants apply the necessary pressure to keep the jawbone healthy. Without an implant, jawbone loss and facial changes are likely, making it difficult to adjust dentures comfortably for pain-free chewing. Unlike dentures, implants are secure and will not slip, enabling natural eating, speaking, and smiling. 

Lastly, a common reason may be if you are considering a dental bridge. A dental bridge fills the gap of a missing tooth and is held in place by crowns on adjacent teeth. To fit a bridge, our dentists need to remove some enamel from the surrounding teeth, which is irreversible. We favor implants to preserve as much natural tooth enamel as possible.

Implants are more robust than bridges as they are anchored directly into the jaw, offering greater stability for smiling, speaking, and eating. They are also durable, ensuring a long-lasting, healthy smile.

What Happens If You’re Missing All Upper or Lower Teeth?

Individuals who are missing all of their upper or lower teeth may assume that traditional dentures are their only option for a beautiful smile. However, there are several implant options available that can restore your oral health and the cosmetic appearance of your teeth, including the following:

• Ball attachment dentures: These dentures are attached by two or more anchor implants in the jaw. While these dentures will be more stable than traditional dentures, you may still experience minor movement with this option. 

• Bar attachment dentures: Bar attachment dentures are anchored by four to six implants connected by a bar. Your dentures will be made to snap into place on the support bar, offering more stability. 

• Screw retained dentures: By placing five or more implants for the denture to adhere to. This option provides stability and the ability to clean under the denture without removing it. 
• Individual implants: While this surgery typically requires eight or more implants, this solution offers the most permanent and natural feeling and looking replacement to your original teeth. 

Your oral surgeon will perform a comprehensive exam and determine the best course of action for treatment depending on your unique needs.

Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implant Surgery?

Figuring out if you’re a good fit for dental implant surgery is an essential first step. Not everyone is a suitable candidate, but don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it might sound. The ideal candidate should have healthy gums and enough bone to support the implant. If you’re someone who has lost a tooth (or teeth) due to injury, decay, or disease, dental implants could be a fantastic option for you.

However, there are a few things that could make the process trickier. For instance, if you’re a smoker, have chronic diseases like diabetes or heart disease, or have had radiation therapy to your head/neck area, these factors might affect healing and the success of the implant. That doesn’t automatically disqualify you, but it’s something to discuss with your dentist. 

Also, young people whose jawbones haven’t fully developed yet might need to wait until they’re candidates. It’s all about creating the perfect environment for the implant to succeed, so having a chat with your dentist is the best way to figure out if it’s the right time for you to consider dental implant surgery.

What Are The Different Types of Dental Implants?

The two main materials used for implants are titanium and zirconia. There is extensive research and testing that goes into developing new implant materials, including the chemical and physical properties. These dental materials are resistant to corrosion and fracturing while having the proper composition and microstructure.

Titanium Dental Implants

Titanium implants are still the most commonly used. One of the main benefits of titanium is that it doesn’t disturb the jawbone. When a titanium implant is placed, the bone is still able to grow next to the implant as it would around a natural tooth, which allows the implant to last longer.

Titanium implants are also the most cost-effective and versatile option. Most titanium implants are not made out of pure titanium but of titanium alloys. This allows the implant to be stranger and safer for those that may be allergic to titanium. Titanium is a biocompatible material that closely resembles the human body making implant fusion to the bone easier.

Zirconia Dental Implants

Unlike titanium, zirconia implants are recent in the dental implant industry. Many patients have concerns with titanium implants due to potential allergies or putting metal in their bodies. Zirconia makes a great metal-free alternative. Zirconia is used for making bridges and crowns. The material fuses to the bone very similarly to titanium as well.

One of the most prominent things to note about zirconia implants is that they have not been around for as long as titanium implants have been, so the testing level of the material is not the same. However, zirconia dental implants have two strong advantages over titanium implants:

• There is no dark metal color showing through the gums
• While zirconia can fracture easier than titanium, they are less susceptible to corrosion

Ultimately, the material used for dental implants is determined by the patient’s needs. While you may be unsure of which material is best, an oral specialist will provide you with the necessary information so you can make well-informed decisions on your oral health.

When Is Bone Grafting Necessary for a Dental Implant?

If the patient’s jawbone isn’t thick enough or is too soft, they may need bone grafting before they can proceed with dental implant surgery. If their jaw can’t support the implant, the surgery will likely fail. A bone graft creates a solid base for the implant. In some cases, it can take several months for the transplanted bone to grow enough new bone to support a dental implant. 

However, some patients may only need minor bone grafting, which can be done at the same time as the implant surgery. The condition of the patient’s jawbone determines how an oral surgeon may proceed with a bone graft procedure.

How to Prepare for Your Dental Implant Surgery?

Preparing for your dental implant surgery begins with a thorough evaluation by your dentist, which may include taking detailed X-rays or 3D images of your jaw to plan the best approach for the implant placement. Your dentist will also review your medical history to identify any conditions that could influence the surgery’s success and discuss anesthesia options to ensure your comfort during the procedure. 

Next, you’ll be given specific pre-surgery instructions, which may include guidelines on eating or drinking before your surgery, especially if you’re going to be sedated. You might be advised to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, given the after-effects of sedation. Additionally, your dentist might prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection, to be taken a few days before the surgery. Following these steps closely will help set the stage for a successful dental implant surgery and a smooth recovery process.

What to Expect After Dental Implant Surgery

After your dental implant surgery, knowing what to expect can help ease your mind. The immediate period following the procedure is crucial for healing, and it’s normal to experience some discomfort. You may notice swelling, bruising around the implant area, and minor bleeding. These symptoms are typical and should reduce over a few days.

Pain management is an important part of recovery. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe medication to help manage any discomfort. It’s also advised to stick to soft foods for a few days to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the implant site.

Good oral hygiene is key to successful healing. You’ll be given specific instructions on how to care for your mouth post-surgery. This usually includes gentle brushing around the implant site and using a special mouthwash to keep the area clean without irritating it.

In the weeks following surgery, you’ll have follow-up appointments with your dentist to monitor the healing process and ensure the implant is integrating well with your jawbone. It’s important to attend these appointments and communicate any concerns you may have. Remember, healing times can vary from person to person. Patience and following your dentist’s advice are vital to ensuring a smooth recovery and the long-term success of your dental implant.

Caring for Your New Dental Implants

Taking care of your new dental implants is a lot like looking after your natural teeth, but with a few special considerations to keep them in top shape. First off, regular brushing and flossing are your best friends. You’ll want to brush at least twice a day and floss daily to keep the area around your implants clean and free from plaque. Using a soft-bristle toothbrush is a good idea to avoid scratching the surface of the implants.

Another key point is to make regular visits to your dentist a priority. These check-ups are not only for cleaning but also for making sure your implants are holding up well. Your dentist can catch any potential issues early, ensuring your implants last as long as possible.

Be mindful of what you eat as well. While implants are strong, chewing on hard foods or ice can risk damaging them. Stick to a healthy diet, and try to avoid sticky or hard candies that could cause harm.

Lastly, quitting smoking can significantly benefit the longevity of your implants. Smoking can weaken the bone structure and negatively affect the healing process, so for the sake of your implants (and your overall health), it’s best to avoid it.

Need Dental Implants? Contact Elizabeth City Oral Surgery Group Today

At Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group, our priority is patient satisfaction. It’s vital to choose the best of the best when it comes to surgical procedures. We use the latest equipment, innovative treatments, and dental advances to ensure our patients get the best results.

Contact us to learn more about how we can help you proceed with your dental implant surgical needs. Call (908) 663-5309 or complete our online contact form.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implant Surgery

Diving into the world of dental implant surgery can bring up a lot of questions. Here are some of the most common ones we hear:

• Can dental implants get cavities? No, dental implants are made from materials that cannot decay like your natural teeth. However, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent issues around the implant site. 
• How long does the entire dental implant process take? The timeline varies depending on individual healing times and whether additional procedures are needed, such as bone grafting. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few months to over a year from consultation to the final placement of the crown. 
• Is dental implant surgery painful? Most people find that discomfort is minimal, especially when compared to the pain of living with missing or damaged teeth. Local anesthesia is used during the procedure, and your dentist may prescribe pain relief for the initial recovery period. 
• Will my dental implants look natural? Absolutely. One of the major benefits of dental implants is their natural appearance. Your dentist will work with you to create implants that match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth. 

Remember, your dentist is there to answer any specific questions you have about dental implant surgery to ensure you’re fully informed and comfortable with the process.