Dental Implants in Vestavia Hills
A dental implant is a restorative treatment used to replace the root of a damaged or missing tooth. The implant is placed in the jawbone, providing support for crowns or artificial teeth.
At Fulton Dental in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, Dr. Fulton specializes in dental implant restorations and recommends them as the ideal solution for replacing missing teeth.
Dental Implant Restoration at Fulton Dental
At Fulton Dental, Dr. Kane Fulton specializes in dental implant restoration, creating prosthetic teeth or dental crowns to replace missing ones. Dr. Fulton attaches the artificial tooth to an implant that has integrated with the jawbone through osseointegration. He then places the crown or prosthetic tooth over the implant to serve as a permanent replacement.
Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants improve a patient's smile by replacing missing teeth. They correct bite and speech issues that can occur with missing teeth and help prevent bone loss. Additionally, implants support the facial structure and restore oral functions, promoting overall oral health.
Types of Dental Implants
In dentistry, there are two main types of dental implants:
● Endosteal: These implants are inserted directly into the jawbone.● Subperiosteal: These implants are placed above or beneath the gums.
Process for Placing Dental Implants
The dental implant procedure involves several appointments. It begins with a thorough dental examination to determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for implants. Any existing dental issues are treated first.
Once candidacy is confirmed, the dental implant specialist or oral surgeon numbs the area with anesthesia. An incision is made in the jaw, and a titanium post is inserted to replace the missing tooth root. The site then needs about 12 weeks to heal and for the implant to bond with the jawbone through osseointegration.
After this healing period, an abutment is attached to the implant to support the artificial tooth. The gums are then allowed to heal around the abutment. The final step involves placing the artificial tooth, or dental crown, onto the abutment, restoring the missing tooth.