Dental Implants | Milford, CT
Here at M&D, we place dental implants to support dental restorations that replace missing teeth. Dental implants are the only permanent, fixed solution for missing teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth and are increasingly preferred by adults who are missing one or more teeth.
What are dental implants?
Like a natural tooth, a dental implant has a root and a crown. The implant, which replaces the missing tooth root, is made of titanium or zirconia. These safe materials bond to the jawbone, providing strong support for the new tooth. The restoration serves as the crown of the lost tooth.
Purpose of Dental Implants in Tooth Replacement
Dental implants replace missing or damaged teeth with options that look and feel natural. They let you bite and chew like with your own teeth. Implants also help keep your jawbone healthy, stopping bone loss after tooth loss and keeping other teeth from moving out of place.
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon Involvement
Getting dental implants is a team effort between the oral surgeons and restorative dentists. Our oral surgeons place the dental implants in the jawbone as part of the restoration process. Your dentist or a prosthodontist will fabricate and attach the restorations, which may be crowns, fixed bridges, or a full arch of replacement teeth. Throughout the process, we collaborate closely with your restoration dentist to ensure a smooth process and recovery.
Technology Used in Dental Implant Placement
Recent innovations in dental technology have dramatically improved the dental implant placement process, minimizing trauma and improving outcomes. Technologies used by our oral surgeons for dental implant placement include:
- CBCT scans and 3D imaging for high-resolution, 3D images of the jawbone, surrounding structures, and nerves. This allows us to plan the exact location and angle of each implant’s placement.
- Computer programs help us make guides that fit your mouth exactly. These guides show where to place your implants accurately.
- Intraoral Scanners take quick, detailed pictures of your teeth and gums. This is easier and more comfortable than using putty molds.
- The X-Guide, a dynamic 3D navigation system, is used for the most accurate dental implant placement possible.
Dental Implant Applications
Dental implants are an incredibly versatile option for anyone with missing, severely damaged, or decayed teeth.
- A single dental implant and attached crown can replace a tooth that has to be extracted or has been knocked out.
- We can place two dental implants to support a fixed bridge, or several implants to support individual crowns.
- If you are missing all or most of your teeth in the upper or lower jaw, we can extract any remaining teeth and strategically place several implants (often 4 to 6) to support a full arch of replacement teeth.
Patient Evaluation and Candidacy
To see if dental implants are right for you, our oral surgeon looks at your medical history and takes pictures of your mouth and jaw. This helps us determine whether you’re healthy enough for implants or whether certain health issues would make them unsafe for you.
Diagnostic imaging helps us assess the strength of your jawbone and the surrounding areas. This is important because your jaw must be strong enough to support an implant. The images also indicate whether you may need bone grafting before placing the dental implant.
Cost Considerations
The cost of dental implant surgery varies based on clinical factors, the type of implants used, anesthesia options, and other considerations. We review all of these at your consultation and will review your insurance and financial concerns with you. To make payment easier, we accept most major credit cards and CareCredit, a low or no-interest financing option specifically for medical and dental expenses.
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
One of the greatest advantages of dental implant restorations is their easy care. Once healing is complete and your permanent restorations are in place, you can treat them like your natural teeth. Brush twice daily, floss daily, and see your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings. Vigilant oral hygiene and a night guard are the best ways to protect your investment in dental implants.
Schedule a Consultation with an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
The oral surgeons at M&D have been placing dental implants for years and have extensive experience in surgical placement and anesthesiology for your comfort during the procedure. To learn more about your dental implant options and which ones are right for you, call our office at Milford Phone Number 203-874-1664 to schedule a consultation.
“Don’t be afraid to Smile.”
For years I’d felt like a part of my body was missing — because my teeth were. My dentist told me that dental implants would make me feel and look a lot better. OK, I said. Now, I’m thrilled. I can smile, eat anything, and enjoy a good laugh with my friends.