Modern dental implants are improving the lives of thousands of people. Using the latest techniques, technology and materials, damaged or missing teeth can be replaced seamlessly with natural-looking, fully-functioning implants.

What is a Dental Implant?

Modern dental implants consist of a tiny titanium post that is placed into the jawbone in place of missing teeth. An artificial tooth, or “crown,” is then attached to the post with a special piece called the abutment. The result is an incredibly strong, functional tooth that allows you to eat virtually anything, all while maintaining natural facial contours and appearance.

To read more about the postabutment, and crown, click on the word you’d like to learn more about, or select it from the main menu above under Implants 101.

Why choose dental implants over other types of restoration?

For years fixed bridges and removable dentures were the only way to replace a missing tooth (or teeth). These techniques have several drawbacks that dental implants have successfully addressed.  Dentures often do not allow for a natural smile, and prevent you from eating many foods. They also require frequent removal and cleaning, and can slip out in public, which many people find embarrassing. Traditional fixed bridges require cutting down the surrounding teeth to provide a foundation for the bridge. There is no need to make these sacrifices with modern dental implants.

Do Implants Require Special Maintenance?

You care for dental implants the same way you would care for otherwise healthy teeth. Brushing, flossing and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups is generally all that is needed. With proper care, modern dental implants should last a lifetime.

The Dental Implant Surgical Procedure:

The placement of dental implants is typically a relatively non-invasive procedure.  For most patients local anesthesia is used to numb the surgical site.  Some patients opt to have sedation so they may sleep through the procedure.  Once the area is fully anesthetized, a series of sequentially enlarging drills are used to prepare the site for the implant.  The implant is then precisely placed into your jawbone. In many cases the non-restorable tooth is first removed followed by immediately placing the dental implant.  After the procedure the implants are allowed to heal for 6 weeks to 4 months to allow your bone and implants to fuse together through a process called osseointegration.

Once the implant fuses with the jawbone you return to your dentist to have your new tooth (or teeth) created.  This is done by taking an impression of all of your teeth and having a dental lab create a custom tooth (crown) for your mouth.  Your dentist then secures the crown to the implant and you will be ready to show off your new smile.

Missing and Compromised Teeth

While tooth loss, cavities, and trauma are common occurrences, the consequence of neglecting to care for those teeth can negatively impact your quality of life. Tooth loss and teeth compromised from cavities and trauma can have a significant impact on your appearance, self-esteem, and overall health. Compromised teeth are often associated with infections that can lead to serious health concerns.  You may find that you can no longer eat many of the foods that you once enjoyed. You might even find yourself self-conscious in public, nervous to laugh or smile.

Missing teeth, and teeth compromised from cavites and trauma, should not go unaddressed. With modern implant technology, there’s no need to endure these setbacks. Don’t wait until your teeth and oral health regress even further.

Lake Tahoe Reno Dental Implants

Contact Tahoe Reno dental implants expert, Dr. Martin, for dental implant options in the Reno, Tahoe, Truckee, Carson City area today, and start enjoying the smile you deserve.