Tooth loss is so regrettable and carries with it a host of health issues. That's why dentists such as Dr. Wade Dressler and Dr. Irving Phillips Jr. at Dental choice in Easton, MD, counter its ill effects with modern dental implants. Stable, bone-building, and lifelike, dental implants recreate natural oral function and aesthetics so that patients of all ages have great smiles once again. Learn here if these popular tooth replacements could be right for you!

The story of dental implants

Dental implants have become more popular since the 1980s when dentists discovered a way to strengthen the bond between the implant and jaw bone. This bonding process, called osseointegration, ensures that the artificial tooth (or bridgework or dentures) stays in the jaw and withstands chewing and biting.

Today, millions of people across the world enjoy the many benefits of dental implants. These amazing devices rebuild any jaw bone lost to tooth extraction, and they look and perform just like their natural counterparts.

Do you qualify for dental implants?

You probably do if you are in good oral and systemic health, have enough bone in your jaw, are old enough that your jaw bone has stopped growing, and are not pregnant or lactating. While tobacco users receive dental implants, smoking cessation increases treatment success and implant longevity, according to the researchers at the University of Murcia in Spain. Good dental implant candidates also have solid oral hygiene habits and see their dentist in Easton every six months for a check-up and professional cleaning.

Your implant consultation and treatment

Through a comprehensive dental examination and specialized digital imaging, Dr. Phillips or Dr. Dressler can confirm that you're ready for an in-office implant procedure. Your jaw bone should be sufficient in size and density to accept the dental implant screw. If it's not, the dentist may augment it with special grafting materials or natural donor bone.

As for the treatment itself, it all takes place at Dental Choice. You'll receive an injection of local anesthetic to numb the area, and then, the dentist will create an opening in the gums and bone. The implant is inserted and the site closed with sutures.

As you heal over the next several weeks to months, bone forms around the implant, securing it in place. When you return to the dental office, your dentist will attach a metal alloy post and custom-fabricated porcelain crown to complete your new tooth.

Implant care

It's as simple as brushing two times a day and flossing once a day to avoid plaque and tartar and the gum disease they cause. Also, if you grind your teeth, your dentist may advise you to wear a night-time bite guard. Finally, be sure to see Dr. Dressler or Dr. Phillips for a follow-up, for any concerns that may arise, and of course, for your semi-annual visit.

Like it never happened

If you have lost a tooth, or several teeth, to decay, gum problems, or accident, please contact Dental Choice today for an implant consultation. Our dentists have the experience, knowledge, and skills to replace those teeth so that you can have a wonderful smile again. Call today: (410) 822-4310.