The Process of Getting Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots typically made of titanium surgically anchored into the jawbone to provide a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth. At Englewood Dentistry, these prosthetic teeth are a popular and effective solution for individuals with missing teeth, offering a natural-looking and functional replacement that can improve oral health and restore a confident smile. Dental implants integrate with the bone over time, creating a secure, long-lasting solution that allows normal chewing and speaking.

Types of Dental Implants

Endosteal Implants

An endosteal implant is the most common dental implant in Englewood, NJ, and is surgically implanted directly into the jawbone. Once the bone has healed around the implant, an abutment is attached to the post to hold the artificial tooth in place.

Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal implants are not placed directly in the jawbone like endosteal implants. Instead, they are placed on the gum line above the jaw. This type of implant is used when there is not enough healthy bone to support an endosteal implant.

The Procedure for Dental Implants

Before getting dental implants, you must have healthy gums and enough bone to support the implant. Our dentist in Englewood, NJ, will perform a thorough exam to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. If your gums and bones are healthy, the dentist will proceed with the dental implant process.

You will be sedated with local anesthesia or IV sedation on the day of your surgery. Our dentist will then incision your gum line to expose the bone beneath it. They will drill a small hole into your jawbone and insert the implant post. The post will fuse to your jawbone over the next few months through osseointegration. Once it has fused, your dentist will place the abutment on top of the post and secure it with a temporary crown. Finally, after your gums have healed, you will receive your final restoration. You should avoid eating hard foods for a few days after surgery and stick to a soft diet until your gums heal. You should also avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least two weeks after surgery. 

The Benefits of Dental Implants

• Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, enhancing your smile's aesthetics. 
• Dental implants restore proper function, allowing for comfortable chewing and clear speech. 
• Dental implants help maintain bone density and prevent facial sagging that can occur with missing teeth. 
• Dental implants are long-lasting, often lasting a lifetime with proper care. 
• Implants can be brushed and flossed like natural teeth, simplifying oral care routines.

Missing teeth can make you feel self-conscious about your smile. Dental implants can restore your confidence by giving you a beautiful smile. If you want to learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dentists, visit Englewood Dentistry at 334 Grand Ave, Englewood, NJ 07631, or call (201) 541-8111.