If you are missing one tooth or multiple teeth, Dr. Rick Lane can help you determine if you are a candidate for dental implants, in order to restore the natural appearance, feeling, and function of your original teeth.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a titanium root form surgically placed in your jaw to replace the missing root of a tooth. When you have a missing tooth, your body begins to resorb the bone previously used to support your tooth. Missing multiple teeth can decrease the ability to evenly wear removable teeth or cause a jaw fracture, as well as cause esthetic problems, or a serious problem called facial collapse.
A dental implant replaces the missing root. Following the implant procedure, a healing period, called osseointegration, is required to allow the bone time to grow tightly around the root form so that it is solidly anchored. The presence of the implant signals to the body that the bone is still needed, so it will not be absorbed.
Dental Implant Procedure
First, a root form is placed in the jaw to take the place of the missing root of the tooth. Then, during a healing period, the bone grows tightly around the root form. When it is healed, Dr. Lane will place a porcelain crown over the implant, yielding the full-functionality and appearance of a natural tooth.
Are Dental Implants Right For You?
To be a candidate for dental implants, you should be in good general health and missing teeth. For implants to be placed in your jawbone, there should be enough bone present. But, if you are lacking bone, a bone grafting procedure may resolve this. If you would like to find out if you are a candidate for a dental implant procedure, please call our office or complete our request an appointment form to schedule an appointment for an exam, or a brief complimentary consultation.