A bright and confident smile is a symbol of health and vitality. Yet, tooth loss can shatter that confidence. Tooth loss is an all too common issue that many of our patients may encounter. Fortunately, dental implants are a revolutionary solution for those with missing teeth. With the help of Dr. Mike Williamson, we can help permanently restore your smile with one or more custom dental implants in Hillsborough, NC.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, typically made of titanium. A local surgeon will surgically place the implant into the jawbone beneath the gum line. Once implanted and healed, they provide a sturdy foundation for dental crowns, bridges, or even full dentures.
A dental implant consists of 3 parts: the implant post, abutment, and restoration. The implant post is the titanium piece that goes in your bone. The abutment is a connector piece made of titanium or zirconia that links the post to the restoration. Your restoration can be a single crown, a bridge, or denture. The restoration is made of tooth-colored materials and is the visible part of your implant prosthetic.
What Sets Our Dental Implants Apart?
Dental implants are often considered the superior choice for missing teeth compared to other restorative options. The benefits of dental implants in Hillsborough, NC include:
- Natural Look and Feel: Dental implants are known for closely mimicking natural teeth in both appearance and function. The replacement teeth match the shape, size, and color of your existing teeth. This seamless integration restores your smile and offers a natural feel and bite. Unlike removable dentures, your implant dentures won’t slip or cause discomfort when eating or speaking.
- Longevity and Durability: Compared to other restorative options, dental implants are a permanent solution for tooth loss. With proper care and oral hygiene, they can last a lifetime.
- Preserve Bone Health: When you lose a tooth, the jawbone in that area can begin to deteriorate over time. Dental implants play a crucial role in preserving bone density. This works by stimulating the bone when the implant fully integrates. As a result, it helps to maintain the jaw’s integrity and structure.
- Improved Oral Health: Dental implants don’t require altering or reducing the adjacent healthy teeth, unlike placing a dental crown or bridge. Implants can help you preserve your natural teeth, which contributes to long-term oral health. Dental implants are easy to clean and maintain. You can brush and floss dental implants in the same way as your natural teeth.
Dental Implants: The Number Solution for Any Number of Missing Teeth
Whether you are missing one or all of your teeth, we can design a custom treatment plan to effectively restore your smile. Dr. Williamson will create a custom treatment plan to replace your tooth or teeth with implants.
People missing one tooth get a dental implant to fill in that gap, which will support a dental crown. If you’re missing one or more consecutive teeth, you can replace them with at least two implant posts and a custom dental bridge.
For entire rows of missing teeth, we will use multiple dental implants and create a custom denture to replace those teeth. At your consultation, Dr. Williamson will assess your mouth to determine the best treatment for you.
Patient Review
Dental Implants FAQs
At Hillsborough Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand that considering dental implants can raise many questions. Whether you’re curious about the procedure, the benefits, or what to expect during recovery, we’re here to help. Read answers to popular dental implant FAQs below.
How long does the tooth implant process take?
The tooth implant process generally takes 4 to 9 months from start to finish. After the initial consultation and planning, the implant is placed in the jawbone. Healing usually takes 3 to 6 months as the implant fuses with the bone. Sometimes, pretreatments like bone grafting can extend the timeline.
How long does swelling last after a dental implant treatment?
You can experience swelling for 3 to 5 days after you get implants. It usually peaks around the second or third day, then gradually decreases. Applying ice packs during the first 24 hours can help reduce the swelling. Most people find that the swelling is mostly gone within a week. If it persists beyond that, contact our office for an appointment!
Is there an age limit for dental implants?
No, there’s no age limit for dental implants. As long as you have sufficient bone density and good overall health, you can be a candidate for implants, regardless of age. Older adults can benefit from implants just as much as younger people. Dr. Williamson will assess your situation to determine if implants are the right option for you.
Can you get tooth implants after having dentures for years?
Yes, you can get tooth implants after having dentures for years. However, long-term denture use may lead to bone loss in the jaw. If this is the case for you, we might require a bone graft before implant placement.
Tooth implants provide a stable and permanent solution compared to dentures. Dr. Williamson will evaluate your bone density and oral health to determine the best approach. Even after years of wearing dentures, implants can improve your comfort and function.
How long does the dental implant process last?
A dental implant post is permanent, and many implants last a lifetime. However, the crown attached to the implant might need replacement after 10 to 15 years due to normal wear.
Can you have dental implants if you have no teeth?
Yes. Dental implants are a great option for people with no teeth. They can replace a full set of teeth in both jaws.
You can also get All-on-4 or All-on-6 techniques are popular for full-mouth restoration. These use four to six implants to support a full arch of teeth. Dr. Williamson will need to assess your jaw bone health first. Sometimes, patients require bone grafts before implant placement.
Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation in Hillsborough, NC
Are you experiencing tooth loss? Restore one or more missing teeth with implant treatment today. Call Dr. Williamson today at 919-587-8401 or request an appointment online at Hillsborough Family and Cosmetic Dentistry.