What are dental implants, and how do they replace teeth?
At State Street Smiles, Drs. Edward and Dina Jackson, our husband-and-wife dental team, work with patients of all ages, ensuring they have access to solutions to improve their smiles. When tooth loss occurs, it is critical that patients replace their teeth as soon as possible to reduce the risk of shifting teeth or reduced efficiency in eating and speaking. Dental implants are an excellent solution for many of our patients. These titanium posts anchor into the jawbone and hold dental restorations based on the patient’s unique dental needs.
How are dental implants used?
There are a few different ways in which our team may use dental implants:
- Single tooth implant. A single-tooth implant is set into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth. A crown is attached to the implant, providing a natural-looking and functioning replacement for your lost tooth.
- Multiple tooth implants. Multiple dental implants are used to securely anchor a dental bridge or partial denture, allowing you to enjoy better biting and chewing abilities.
- Full mouth dental implants (full arch restoration).Ā An entire arch of teeth, including the top and bottom arches, can be replaced with just four to six strategically placed implants and a complete row of artificial teeth known as a denture. This gives you excellent stability and restores your smileās functionality so you can enjoy all your favorite foods again.
- Mini dental implants. These implants are smaller in size than traditional dental implants and can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. They are a wonderful option for those who do not have enough bone for a traditional implant and offer the same outcome as a larger implant, with the bonus of being less invasive.
These are just some of the ways Drs. Edward and Dina Jackson of State Street Smiles may use dental implants to restore your smile. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you achieve excellent oral health after tooth loss with dental implants, do not hesitate to contact our office in Hackensack, NJ. The office is at 405 Main Street and can be reached by calling (201) 389-2183. We accept new and returning patients and families into our office, serving the surrounding communities of Teaneck, Maywood, and Paramus, NJ
Dental implants are titanium roots, that are replaced with in the jawbone to resemble a tooth or group of teeth. A screw is inserted through the gums and into the jawbone. A porcelain crown is then attached to the screw to become the new tooth or teeth. They can be used to support dental prosthesis including crowns, dentures, and bridges. Todayās treatments are so natural looking, no one will know you had surgery. Thereās approximately a 95% success rate for all implants. With modern advances in dentistry, some implants can be restored immediately with life like all porcelain crowns. For more details ask your dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dental implants prevent further bone loss?
Yes, dental implants help prevent further bone loss. When you lose a tooth, the jawbone in that area begins to deteriorate because it loses stimulation previously provided by the lost tooth. Dental implants mimic natural tooth roots, providing the necessary pressure and stimulation to the jawbone when you chew. This helps retain bone density and inhibits the sunken facial development that can arise with tooth loss. Without an implant or similar intervention, bone loss can continue, potentially affecting surrounding teeth and leading to more serious oral health issues.
Can dental implants affect my sense of taste?
While rare, some patients might experience a change in taste perception after receiving dental implants. This can be due to the initial healing process or minor nerve disturbances in the surrounding tissue. However, these effects are typically temporary. Implants are made from biocompatible materials like titanium, which do not interfere with taste. Once the healing is complete, most patients regain their full sense of taste, and the implants feel like a natural part of the mouth, allowing normal eating and tasting sensations.
How do dental implants impact neighboring teeth?
Dental implants positively affect neighboring teeth by maintaining the structural integrity of your jaw and preventing teeth from shifting. Traditional tooth replacement options, like bridges, rely on adjacent teeth for support, potentially weakening them. Conversely, implants stand alone and don’t exert pressure on surrounding teeth. They can help distribute bite force evenly across your jaw, reducing wear on nearby teeth. This preserves the alignment and function of your other teeth while promoting overall oral health.
Are dental implants a good option for athletes or active individuals?
Dental implants are a great option for athletes or those with active lifestyles. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants are permanently fixed to the jawbone and provide stability, making them less likely to shift or dislodge during physical activities. They can withstand higher impact and pressure, particularly beneficial for individuals involved in sports like contact football or high-impact exercises. Additionally, implants are highly durable, reducing the risk of dental emergencies related to lost or broken prosthetics during physical activities.
Do dental implants require special toothpaste or oral care products?
Dental implants don’t require any special toothpaste or oral care products. Standard oral hygiene tools like fluoride toothpaste, a soft-bristle toothbrush, and dental floss are typically enough to maintain the health of your implants. However, using interdental brushes or floss made specifically for implants can help you clean hard-to-reach areas around the implant post. Keeping your gums healthy is crucial for the longevity of your implant, so regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings are essential.
Can you feel temperature changes in food with dental implants?
After dental implants are fully integrated, you may not feel temperature changes like you would with natural teeth since the implant lacks nerves. However, your gums and surrounding tissue can still detect temperature changes, giving you a similar sensation to natural teeth. The implant crown will also conduct heat and cold to a degree, allowing you to enjoy hot or cold foods normally. Over time, most patients find their implants feel so natural that they don’t notice any significant difference in eating or drinking.
How do dental implants affect speech clarity?
Dental implants can improve speech clarity, especially for individuals with missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures. Missing teeth can cause speech difficulties like slurring or whistling, while dentures may shift, making it hard to pronounce certain words. Being fixed and stable, Implants mimic natural teeth’ function, allowing for clear pronunciation. Once they are in place and you’ve adjusted to them, your tongue, lips, and teeth can work together more effectively to produce clear speech without the slipping or discomfort associated with other dental prosthetics.
