Dental Implants

There are several reasons why you may lose a tooth at some point in your life. With dental implants, you can take back your smile. Dental implants can replace missing teeth for the long term, restoring the functionality and look of your smile while preventing potential issues from developing in the future.

Unlike dentures, which can be removed, dental implants are firmly anchored into the jaw itself. Implants can also be used to more securely attach a removable full or partial denture. They can also replace ill-fitting dentures, partials, or bridges.

Precision Placements

At Riverbend Dental Health, we use 3D x-rays to allow placement of implants with greater precision. These scans allow us to visualize nerve position, volume and density of bone as well as placement of the final restoration in relation to the placement of the implant. Planning your implant placement in software allows a greater margin of safety. 

Securely Anchored

Dental implants feel more like your natural teeth as they are securely anchored. The artificial teeth are held in place by a titanium metal screw that is surgically implanted in the jawbone. 

Dental Implants Preserve Jawbone

If you’re missing a tooth, the tissues around the open area can resorb and cause your remaining teeth to shift, affecting how your bite functions. You may also lose bone material in your jaw over time, which could cause issues with your bite and facial structure.

Implanting an artificial tooth can help preserve the quality of your bite as well as prevent bone loss and shifting teeth.

Implant Procedure

Implant treatment consists of two parts: a surgical phase and a restorative phase. 

During the surgical phase, we begin with a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical and dental history, x-rays, and a full clinical examination of the entire mouth and missing tooth area. A comprehensive treatment plan can then be created. From that point, implants can be surgically placed in the jawbone.

During the restorative phase, the body heals for approximately four to six months. The healing process allows the bone around the implant to fuse to the titanium implant screw. Once the area is completely healed, the implants can then be used in tandem with other crowns, bridges, or dentures. The length of the healing time is based on the quality and quantity of bone, as well as the type of implant placed. 

Immediate Implants

Alternative to traditional implants, there are also immediate implants, also known as same-day implants. A modern dental solution where the implant is placed directly into the jawbone immediately after a tooth is extracted. This procedure skips the months-long healing period required in traditional methods and often allows for a temporary crown to be attached on the same day. This eliminates the need for a long waiting period between tooth extraction and implant placement, as seen in traditional methods.

Same-day implants are safe for many patients but not everyone. Factors like sufficient bone density, healthy gums, and overall good health are essential for a successful procedure. Our dentists will evaluate your specific case to determine suitability.

Book an appointment to chat with Dr. Nathan Speidel or Dr. Kent Stringham today to see if you are a good candidate for dental implants and change your smile for good.

Dental implants are firmly anchored into the jaw itself. Implants can replace missing teeth or be used to more securely attach bridges, removable, full or partial dentures.