What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth that's shaped to fit the exact opening in your mouth. It's securely anchored to your jawbone, making it a near-permanent solution that won't slip or slide like dentures. Implants also appear very natural, making it hard to distinguish them from the rest of your teeth.

What Can Implants Be Used For?

Implants are often used to replace only a single missing tooth. Even so, they have numerous other applications, such as: 

• Filling in for multiple teeth
• Replacing a full set of upper or lower teeth (all-on-4 or all-on-6 reconstruction)
• Performing a full mouth reconstruction

How Are Implants Performed?

Dental implant surgery is performed in two stages. During the first stage, the dentist makes a small incision in your gums to expose the bone. Next, a titanium screw is anchored to your jawbone and the incision is closed. 

Once your gums fully heal, your permanent implant will then be attached. This process can take several months, or even up to a year. While you are waiting, you may be outfitted with dental flippers or another type of oral appliance.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Tooth implants have a high success rate. While there is some risk of peri-implantitis, the odds of developing it are actually rather low. Dental implants are a near-permanent solution and can last between 15 and 20 years before requiring a replacement. 

Are Dental Implants Right for You?

At Shore Smiles Dental, we offer complimentary consultations to discuss the benefits of dental implants as well as their cost. We want you to enjoy a great smile, and invite you to contact us to find out more.