Dental Implants
If you have recently lost a tooth, or been told that tooth extraction is necessary, you may be wondering what to do next. At Dr. Rifkin’s office, we offer several tooth replacement options to improve the function and cosmetics of your smile. For most of our patients, we recommend dental implants. Dental implants have revolutionized the way we treat missing teeth!
If you have recently lost a tooth, or been told that tooth extraction is necessary, you may be wondering what to do next. At Dr. Rifkin’s office, we offer several tooth replacement options to improve the function and cosmetics of your smile. For most of our patients, we recommend dental implants. Dental implants have revolutionized the way we treat missing teeth!
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small post, usually made from titanium, that acts as the root component of a prosthetic tooth. After a brief healing period, we attach a pillar (abutment), which is a support structure that links the implant post to the restoration. After the pillar is in place, we will attach the restoration.
Implant Restorations
Today’s restorations are stronger and more aesthetically-pleasing than ever before. Dr. Rifkin will be able to recommend the material that best suits your needs. The restorations we offer usually consist of porcelain. Porcelain is a strong, aesthetic, and opaque enough to hide the metal pillar underneath. It also mimics the light-reflective properties of natural enamel (the outer layer of the tooth).
Why Implants May Be Right for You
In general, we recommend dental implants if:
- You have one or more missing teeth
- You have enough bone in the jaw to support a dental implant
- You are in relatively good oral health
- You do not have any systemic health conditions that may hinder the healing process
- You do not want to wear dentures or other removable prosthetics
- You want to improve the function and aesthetics of your smile
- You are willing and able to commit to the implant process
Dental Implant Surgery
The dental implant process is usually split up into two minor surgeries. During the first surgery, we will make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone. Next, Dr. Rifkin drills a tiny hole into the bone and embed the implant post. After the implant is in place, we will suture the incision.
After the first surgery, you will have to wait several months for osseointegration to take place. Osseointegration is a process where the implant post fuses to your jawbone to create a powerful bond. This is vital to the success of your implant. In fact, osseointegration is responsible for many of the benefits associated with implant treatment. Once the bone and implant are properly fused, we can schedule your second surgery.
During your second surgery, we will connect the pillar to the implant post. The pillar is screwed onto the implant and tightened to ensure it does not move out of place. Next, we will take an impression of the area. Our dental laboratory will use this impression to create your final restoration. This process may take a few weeks. In the meantime, we can give you a temporary crown to protect the implant post.
Once your final crown is ready, we can schedule your last appointment. During your final appointment, we will remove the temporary and place the permanent crown. Depending on your pillar, the permanent crown will either be cemented or screwed into place.
After You Receive Your Dental Implant
After your procedure, you may experience some of the typical discomforts associated with oral surgery. Most patients experience some minor swelling, pain at the surgical site, minor bleeding, and minor bruising. If any of these symptoms worsen after the first few days, be sure to contact us as soon as possible. Don’t worry, we will give you a detailed set of post-operative instructions before you leave our office.
Almost all implant procedures are successful. In fact, the success rate for implant treatment is well over 90%. In the unlikely event of infection, implant failure may occur. Smoking and tobacco use can also lead to complications. Every patient is different, but Dr. Rifkin has the experience and expertise to handle these complications safely and effectively.
Taking care of your implant is as easy as maintaining your natural teeth. Brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day can drastically improve the lifespan of your implant. Regular appointments and professional cleanings are also an important part of your oral health.
Don’t settle for anything less than the best! If you would like to learn more about dental implants call 310-596-7230, and schedule your consultation appointment today!
Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants have become the gold standard of tooth replacement for good reason. They offer several advantages over more traditional restorations. Some of these benefits include:
Implant-supported restorations will look just like your natural teeth. They become permanent fixtures in your mouth that are virtually indistinguishable for the rest of your smile. Recent advancements have also increased the strength and durability of restorations materials.
Unlike removable restorations, you will never have to worry about embarrassing slips or speech impediments. Dentures use, for instance, takes some practice before you can properly speak and chew.
Because an implant mimics the root component of a tooth, you will not experience any unusual discomfort. Your implant should feel just like a natural tooth. Other restorations can cause damage or irritation to the surrounding tissues.
Many patients that experience tooth loss may notice a drop in their self-esteem. Implants not only improve the function of your teeth but also your smile! With a full set of beautiful teeth, you can smile, eat, and laugh with confidence.
With your new implant, you will be able to eat your favorite foods, without the use of adhesives or metal clasps. Because of osseointegration, you will not have to worry about the strength of your restoration.
Unlike traditional restorations, implants have been known to last for well over 20 years. Under the proper care and maintenance, your implant may even last a lifetime! This is one of the many reasons implants are the ideal solution when it comes to replacing a tooth.
Osseointegration serves a second purpose beyond providing the foundation for your implant. When you lose a tooth, you lose the physical stimulation your jaw needs to avoid deterioration. If tooth loss remains untreated, your bone will begin to atrophy. Dentures and traditional bridges do nothing to prevent your bone from reabsorbing into the bloodstream. The implant post, through osseointegration, provides the physical stimulation your jaw needs to remain healthy and strong. This can also help you maintain a more youthful facial appearance.