All Phases of Dental Implants, All Under One Roof

What Are Dental Implants?

For many years, bridges and dentures were the most common ways to replace lost or missing teeth. While traditional bridges and dentures can restore chewing function and speech, they are not as effective when it comes to protecting dental health. Teeth go further than what you see on the surface, and the root of the tooth does more than support the tooth. When you bite or chew, the pressure stimulates the jawbone and helps it stay strong and healthy.

A dental implant is designed to replace not just the visible part of the tooth but also the root structure. The implant fits into the jawbone, where it can remain in position permanently. A crown is then attached to the implant to restore the visible part of the tooth.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants are designed to permanently replace single teeth, several teeth or even all of the teeth in the jaw. The main portion of an implant looks like a small cylinder or screw that is made from biocompatible titanium. Through a minimally invasive surgical procedure, the implant is placed into the jaw where it is left to heal for a period of two to six months. During this time of healing, the implant and the jawbone will become bonded together in a way that is similar to the relationship between a real tooth root and the jaw bone. This provides a permanent and secure anchor for a crown, bridge, or denture.

Are Dental Implants Expensive?

Dental implants can have a higher upfront cost than conventional bridges and dentures. However, they tend to be far more cost-effective over their lifetime, which means that inexpensive dental implants might just be the best restoration option available today. Unlike conventional restorations, dental implants won’t need to be adjusted or replaced every five to seven years, and they can protect the strength of your jawbone while serving as a stable support for your prosthetic tooth or teeth.

What to Expect From Dental Implant Surgery

Our dentist in St. Augustine will first ensure you’re a candidate for dental implants. Most people are as long as they have healthy gums and bone structures. If the problem tooth is still present, you will need to undergo an extraction. Bone grafts are not always necessary, but they may be recommended to help build up and strengthen the jawbone. Next, one or more implants are placed in the jawbone, and as they heal, the bone tissue will grow around the implant to stabilize it. It will function just like a natural tooth root once it’s fully healed. Finally, the implant will be exposed and an abutment placed to connect the prosthetic root with the porcelain crown that will serve as your new tooth.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

The most obvious benefit of dental implants is that they replace lost teeth, so you’ll be able to eat and talk comfortably again. However, there are more benefits to enjoy. You won’t need to remove bulky dentures every night, and you don’t need to alter adjacent teeth to support your restorations the way you do with dental bridges. You can get a single implant to replace one lost tooth or implants to replace all your teeth. Because they have a “root” structure, they’ll keep your jaw stimulated and healthy just like normal teeth while protecting the natural spacing of your teeth.

• No natural teeth will need to be altered or compromised to support an implant, as is the case with bridgework. This is a significant benefit since leaving more of your own teeth untouched is important to your overall health.
• The solid integration of the dental implant into the structure of your jaw bone will help to prevent gum recession and the possibility of future bone loss which is sometimes a consequence of bridgework and dentures.
• Dental implants will mimic the function of your natural teeth, adding more comfort and stability than traditional dentures.

What Type of Dental Implant is Right for Me?

Several types of implants are available, including mini dental implants and subperiosteal implants, which are used when the jawbone structure is inadequate for supporting conventional implants. Traditional implants are used when the bone tissue is strong and healthy.

Implants can then be used to support dental crowns, dental bridges, or even dentures, depending on your needs, the number of teeth you’re replacing, and your budget. We’ll help you find the right solution for your smile.

Mini Dental Implants 

Mini dental implants are the newest advancement in implant dentistry, making it possible for St. Augustine dental implant dentists Dr. Domingoes and Dr. Valdes-Domingoes accomplish incredible restorative transformations. Mini dental implants can help to securely anchor loose dentures or replace one (or more) missing teeth. In fact, many patients have enjoyed the pleasure and convenience of having a full arch of teeth replaced—often in just one short visit.

Caring for Dental Implants

Dental implants are an increasingly popular restoration, and their popularity isn’t just due to their health benefits. They look and feel natural, and they’re easy to maintain. You can brush and floss your teeth just as you’ve always done. You’ll also need to schedule routine checkups and cleanings to protect your remaining teeth and your gum health. Our dentist in St. Augustine may also recommend mouthwashes or other products depending on your unique health needs.

Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Most people with good dental health, good overall health, and adequate jawbone structure are candidates for dental implants. If you use tobacco, you might need to quit before the procedure and during the recovery period. Certain health issues, such as diabetes, need to be well-controlled for the best outcome. Our St. Augustine dentist can determine your candidacy for the procedure and recommend a treatment plan.

Will I Need to Replace My Implants?

Much like your own teeth, dental implants can last a lifetime with good care. Good brushing and flossing habits along with routine checkups will help keep your implants in great condition.

Finding Dental Implants Near Me

If you’re looking for dental implants in St. Augustine, we can help. Our dental implant dentist offers comprehensive dental care to help you get the most out of your smile. We will evaluate your teeth, gums, and jawbone to ensure your candidacy, and we will explain each step of the treatment process so that you can make the best decision for your needs.

For a complimentary evaluation and to find out if you a candidate for dental implant technology, please contact our office today.