Dental implants provide a permanent solution to tooth loss that can last for many decades, even a lifetime, compared to other treatments like dentures and bridges that wear down and need replacement.

Once you've grown accustomed to your new replacement smile, you can get on with life without having to think about it daily. Most patients regard an implant as just another tooth. 

Most dental implants are made from titanium and are hidden below the gum line. All people will see is a beautiful, natural-looking crown designed to match your remaining teeth for a seamless finish.

Most denture wearers face an uphill struggle to chew their usual food, and many need to switch to a softer diet. On the contrary, dental implants allow people to eat any food they want without dietary restrictions.

A dental implant differs from a bridge or denture because it halts the process of bone loss. Once anchored into the jaw, an implant restimulates the bone tissue that previously surrounded the old tooth root. As a result, an implant stops bone in that area from being reabsorbed by the body, thus preventing jaw shrinkage, tooth movement and sagging facial structures.

Losing permanent teeth can negatively affect your appearance and oral health, but it doesn't have to. Whether you need to replace one missing or badly decayed tooth, multiple teeth or all of your teeth, there's sure to be a solution for you. 

✓ A dental implant can replace a single tooth without modifying neighbouring teeth to provide support. 

You're probably a good candidate for dental implants if you've lost a tooth or are about to have a tooth extracted. It's crucial to discuss any medical conditions with the doctor and list any medications taken. Certain health conditions may compromise the success of dental implants. You must commit to maintaining excellent oral health to manage the bacterial level in your mouth and visit our hygienist twice a year for a professional clean. Our dentist will also look to ensure your implants are still securely in the bone. Talk to us to find out what's best for you. Call 314-936-3621 or click on the button below.

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Melba Akinwande, DDS, is a highly experienced dentist practicing at Chesterfield Dentistry in Chesterfield, St Louis and Richmond Heights, Missouri.Dr. Akinwande graduated from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry. Following graduation, she completed a general practice residency at the prestigious University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where she performed more complex procedures and surgeries in an acute care setting. She has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education to enhance her skills and better serve her patients.

What are dental implants, and why are they so popular?

A dental implant is a titanium post that replaces your natural tooth root. Your Chesterfield Dentistry provider inserts the implants into spaces in your jaw where your permanent teeth used to be. 

The rise of dental implants over the past 10-15 years has been phenomenal. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), over 3 million Americans currently have dental implants. This is set to increase to around 500,000 per year moving forward. There are several reasons for this. 

First, with the internet’s rising popularity, there’s far more information available, and people have a better understanding of how implants work. Secondly, there are more dental offices offering dental implants. So now, virtually anyone anywhere in America can have implant treatment done locally. Lastly, improved payment plans allow patients to spread the cost over time, making implants more affordable.

How do dental implants differ from other forms of tooth replacement?

Unlike conventional dentures that sit on the gum line, dental implants are anchored directly into the jaw bone, making them stronger and more durable. 

What’s more, if cared for properly, implants can outlast conventional dentures by as much as three times. They’re also more lifelike and easier to maintain than dentures as they don’t require you to remove them from your mouth and soak them.

Perhaps the most significant advantage of dental implants is that they help prevent the bone loss that occurs when you have missing teeth. This is something that conventional dentures can’t do.

How are dental implants utilized?

Most people know that dental implants replace a missing tooth on a one-for-one basis, but they might not know that they can also be used as a stand-alone support for a bridge and retaining a denture. In addition to replacing missing teeth, dental implants provide a solid base to support a wide variety of prosthetic teeth. The process is completed in several stages. 

 

Consultation

During the consultation, Dr. Akinwande performs a series of examinations such as CT scans and/or X-rays to evaluate your bone density. You’ll also be asked questions regarding your past medical history and lifestyle. This ensures the best chances of implant success. Based on his findings and your needs and goals, Dr. Akinwande personalizes a treatment plan unique to you.

Fitting the implant

The next step in the implant process is to undergo surgery. Provided that you have sufficient jawbone and a healthy mouth, the Chesterfield Dentistry team will place the implant. This is done with a mild to moderate anesthetic so you remain awake. 

The procedure is relatively quick (normally 1-2 hours) and pain-free. First, Dr. Akinwande drills a small hole into the jaw and inserts the titanium rod (this is the implant). Next, a crown is placed on the implant to protect it, and the gum area is enclosed to fit around the implant.

Osseointegration

The next stage is osseointegration, where the surrounding bone tissue fuses with the titanium implant over time. This is a vital part of the process and gives the implant its strong and durable nature. This typically takes between 3-6 months to complete, and in the meantime, patients can carry on with their daily lives. In the case of multiple missing teeth, patients may also be issued temporary dentures.

Fitting the abutment

Once the bone tissue has successfully fused with the implant, the abutment can be fitted. This is the second stage of surgery. 

Again a local anesthetic is administered, and Dr. Akinwande attaches the abutment. The abutment connects the prosthetic crown and the titanium implant and acts as a shock absorber when biting down on the tooth, so it’s a vital part of the process.

Final fitting

Some weeks later, you return to the office where your temporary crown is removed and replaced with a permanent restoration. Generally, the whole process takes between 4 and 9 months to complete depending upon the individual. However, the process can often take longer if you require a bone graft before placing the implants.

 

What should I expect if I’m a candidate for implants? 

If you’re considering dental implants, you might be worried about the process. Dr. Akinwande and the Chesterfield Dentistry team can explain the procedure in detail. 

Your treatment plan will outline what treatments you need and when so you know what to expect. We can also put you in touch with people who have had the process completed if you wish to give you peace of mind. You can always ask any questions or voice any concerns that you have at any stage during the process. 

What can I expect after implant treatment? 

Because the implant process involves a surgical procedure, it’s normal to feel a small amount of discomfort and/or swelling and bruising afterward. This depends on the treatments you’ve endured. For instance, it isn’t uncommon for a person who has had a straightforward implant to return to work the very next day with little or no signs of bruising/swelling. Conversely, a patient who requires multiple implants may take longer to recover. 

That said, any pain or discomfort should be minimal and is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. You may also be asked to eat softer foods for the first 2-3 weeks. 

The bottom line is that dental implants can make a whole world of difference in your everyday life. Implants can restore your smile, confidence, and appearance. 

To learn more about dental implants, call Chesterfield Dentistry or book an appointment online today.