Implants

Dental implants are widely recognized as the gold standard for tooth replacement. Unlike traditional bridges or dentures, implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function just like natural teeth. That's why Springfield Dental is proud to offer dental implant services designed to restore your smile and your confidence.

Dental implants are like sturdy anchors made of titanium or ceramic that are placed into your jawbone to hold replacement teeth. Think of them as artificial roots, providing a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth that look and feel natural.

Types of dental implants

• Endosteal implants: These are the most common type and look like screws, cylinders, or blades. They're surgically placed directly into your jawbone and can support one or more artificial teeth. If you currently have bridges or removable dentures, endosteal implants are a great option for you.
• Subperiosteal implants: These implants sit on top of the jawbone with metal framework posts that extend through your gum to support your replacement teeth. They're ideal for people who can't wear removable dentures or don't have enough jawbone to support traditional implants. Both types of implants offer a reliable solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile's function and appearance.

Advantages of Dental Implants Over Dentures

• Improved Ability to Chew: Dentures might move around in your mouth, making chewing difficult. Dental implants are anchored in your jaw, much like your natural teeth, so you may enjoy your favorite foods confidently and without pain.
• Improved Capacity to Communicate: Dentures sliding into your mouth might cause you to stammer or slur your words. Dental implants allow you to talk without your teeth moving about.
• Increased comfort: Your gums change shape to replace spaces where you once had teeth, and they continue to change over time, causing dentures to become loose and slide about. Dentists recommend that you have your dentures adjusted every now and then and entirely replace them every 5-8 years due to how your gums change form over time. Implants, which become a part of you, might be more comfortable than dentures that slide about on top of your gums.
• Improved Dental Health: Dentures that slip and slide in your mouth might cause gum irritation or infection. Bacteria and fungi can dwell in the gaps and crevices of your dentures, increasing your chances of acquiring an infection. On the other hand, implants provide easier access between your teeth, allowing you to continue flossing for optimal gum health. You may also need to have part of your teeth shaved to wear a tooth-supported bridge. Implants eliminate the need to have surrounding teeth changed, which can benefit your long-term oral health.
• Better Appearance: The crown over your implant is designed to look like your natural teeth. They can bring back your grin and make you feel better about yourself. With proper dental care, your implants can last a lifetime.
• Protection from Bone Loss: Your natural tooth roots are embedded in your jawbone. This stabilizes your jawbone in the same way that a load-bearing wall in your home does. When you have teeth extracted without replacing them, your jawbone might deteriorate over time. This might alter the contours of your face and lips. Implants, which are implanted in your jaw like real teeth, support your jawbone and prevent bone loss.

Dental Implant Procedure at Springfield Dental

Before beginning the treatment, it's crucial to undergo a comprehensive medical examination to ensure there are no hindrances to proper recuperation following surgery. Typically, this involves a thorough dental examination, including the creation of models of your teeth and jaw based on X-ray images.

Ensure your dentist is aware of your complete medical history, including any medications and supplements you are taking. If you are on blood thinners, inform your dentist, as adjustments may be necessary. Your dentist will coordinate with your primary care doctor regarding any medications that need to be temporarily stopped before surgery. Never discontinue any medications without consulting both your dentist and doctor.

Follow any medications prescribed by your dentist. Individuals with certain disorders or orthopedic implants, such as a hip replacement, may require antibiotics before surgery to prevent infection. Plan for transportation after your procedure, especially if you'll be receiving oral conscious sedation or IV sedation, as you'll need a trusted friend or family member to accompany you home afterward.

What to Expect During Your Dental Implant Procedure

• Initial Consultation: At your first visit, we'll take a close look at your oral health and chat about your treatment goals. Got questions about the procedure? Don't hesitate to ask! We'll work together to create a personalized plan that fits your needs perfectly.
• Preparation: If needed, we'll take care of any damaged teeth and make sure your jawbone is ready for implants. Sometimes, bone grafting might be necessary to give your implants a strong foundation. Rest assured, we'll prep your mouth with care and precision.
• Implant Placement: Our skilled dentists will skillfully place your dental implants into your jawbone using advanced techniques and technology. We'll make tiny incisions in your gums and gently insert the implant posts. Over time, these implants will fuse with your bone, creating a solid base for your new teeth.
• Healing and Integration: After the implant placement, your gums will need some time to heal, and the implants will integrate with your jawbone. This process, called osseointegration, usually takes a few months. Don't worry; we may provide temporary restorations to keep you feeling comfortable and confident during this time.
• Final Restoration: Once the implants have fully integrated, we'll add custom-made dental crowns or prosthetics to the implant posts. These restorations will be carefully crafted to blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth, giving you a smile that looks and feels fantastic.
• Follow-Up Care: We'll give you detailed instructions on how to take care of your new dental implants to ensure they stay healthy and strong for years to come. Plus, we'll schedule regular check-ups to keep an eye on your progress and address any concerns you may have.

The success rate of dental implants varies depending on your overall health and oral hygiene practices. However, for individuals with good health and dental hygiene habits, implants have a success rate of 90%-95%.

How Painful are Dental Implants?

Anticipate some discomfort as dental implant surgery involves a surgical procedure. However, numerous studies indicate that most patients experience less discomfort and swelling during and after dental implant surgery compared to tooth extraction.

After surgery, you can typically manage pain and swelling with over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or Motrin. Recovery times vary, but most patients can resume their normal activities within three days. While swelling and soreness should subside over time, if they persist, consult your surgeon.

During your recovery period, consider consuming soft foods to ease discomfort as your gums heal. It may take several months for your jawbone to fully recover and develop around the implant. Follow-up appointments with your surgeon and dentist are essential to monitor your progress and ensure the success of your dental implants.

When it comes to dental implant treatment, choosing the right provider is crucial to achieving successful results. Your family dentist at Springfield Dental is not only your trusted partner in oral health but also your go-to expert for dental implant services. With our convenient location in Springfield, Massachusetts, getting the best dental implant dentist near you has never been easier.