Dental Implants
Jefferson Hills, PA
Dental Implants provided by Dr. Kenneth Poleski
in Jefferson Hills, PA at Poleski Family Dentistry
 The American College of Prosthodontists says that 178 million individuals in the United States have at least one missing tooth.
Around 40 million have lost all of their teeth. Missing teeth can lead to several dental health issues including receding jawbone and facial sagging. It is wise to consider addressing the problem with dental implants to prevent tooth misalignments and jawbone deterioration.
Poleski Family Dentistry provides dental implant services to our patients in the Jefferson Hills, PA community. Our team takes the time to review individual oral health cases before designing a suitable treatment plan. We have a friendly team of specialists that caters to people of all ages and backgrounds.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are metallic devices placed into the jawbone in the space left by a missing tooth. The structure of the implant is designed to function and look like the root of your natural teeth. Their aesthetic and mechanical qualities make them a suitable replacement after tooth loss.
The primary aim of acquiring a dental implant is to restore the tooth's mechanics and appearance. Your teeth work as a unit to support chewing and grinding of food. When there is an empty space, the remaining teeth can move out of their original position.
A missing tooth can trigger tooth misalignments that affect your bite. When teeth move out of their usual position, they can make chewing food challenging and uncomfortable. The surrounding teeth also develop gaps where food debris gets stuck, causing tooth damage and gum disease.
Dental implants reestablish the support offered by the surrounding teeth. They protect your oral health by covering tooth gaps and reducing the accumulation of tartar and plaque from tooth debris.
Implants also exert pressure on the underlying bone, minimizing the deterioration that often precipitates tooth loss. It restores the foundation needed to keep your teeth healthy and stable.
What Is the Procedure for Dental Implants?
The primary aim of the implant procedure is to affix a tooth root on the site of your missing tooth.
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The process starts with an exam and oral health tests to confirm you are an ideal candidate for the procedure. Your medical history and prescription medication are considered during the initial assessment.
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The next phase entails creating a copy of the structure of your teeth and gums to ensure accuracy when performing the procedure. Our specialists apply computerized imaging tools during the assessment to capture the shape and contours of your teeth and jawbone.
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Once dental health specialists approve your case, they will affix the dental implant to your jawbone. An incision is made on your gum tissue to expose the underlying bone. The tooth-like root is implanted and sutures are used to seal the open wound.
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After the wound heals, our dental health professionals will place supporting posts known as abutments on top of the cap to allow for a restoration attachment later. The posts ensure a stable dental crown attachment and minimal damage to the tooth root. |
How Long Does a Dental Implant Procedure Take?
The procedure may take several months to complete. Each stage of the process demands healing time before proceeding to the next step. Some steps can be combined to shorten the treatment time, but that depends on your oral health status.
Our dental health specialists can provide a timeline for the procedure after conducting the initial assessment. You can discuss your needs and preferences during your dental visit.
What Are Dental Implants Made Of?
Dental implants typically consist of three principal parts: the abutment, tooth root, and the crown. The implant or tooth root is made of titanium material, which fuses with the jawbone for additional strength and stability.
The abutment sits between the tooth root and the crown, allowing the connection between the two parts. It is made of porcelain or zirconia since the connector is sometimes visible. Gold and stainless steel are other materials used for the abutment.
The crown is the visible portion of the artificial tooth and is made from natural-looking materials. Crowns are made of metal alloys, which are durable and can withstand intense bite pressure. Zirconia and porcelain are the most popular materials for crowns due to their color and aesthetics.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
The durability of a dental implant usually depends on the material used to fabricate the device. Your age and commitment to dental care also determine the lifespan of the implant. You can expect the implant to last between 10 and 30 years.
Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Implants are recommended for patients seeking to replace at least one missing tooth. Your teeth and gums must be healthy and not have signs of decay or gum inflammation. If you have existing dental health issues, you'll be referred for the necessary procedures before commencing implant treatment.
The procedure is risky for patients who consume tobacco. Smoking blocks blood vessels, preventing the delivery of nutrients to the tissue. Our dentists will recommend you quit the habit before undergoing the procedure.
Dental Implant FAQ's
Can You Get Dental Implants After Bone Loss?
Dental implants require a healthy jawbone to ensure the artificial root has adequate support. A weak bone foundation can cause recurring dental health problems that complicate the recovery process. Our dentists recommend addressing bone loss before acquiring a dental implant.
What Is a Bone Graft for Dental Implants?
A bone graft is a procedure that restores the patient's jawbone density. It involves using bone tissue material from your body or from a synthetic source. The graft is affixed onto the bone to encourage cell growth and tissue regeneration.
Can You Get Dental Implants with Gum Disease?
Gum disease tends to weaken the underlying bone supporting the implant. Inflamed gum tissue also causes teeth to loosen and may lead to tooth loss. If you have gum disease you will need the condition addressed before proceeding with treatment. Our team will advise you on what to do after identifying gum inflammation, which may include regular periodontal maintenance at our Jefferson Hills office.
Schedule a Dental Implant Procedure with Your Jefferson Hills Dentist Today!
You can consult our dental professionals at Poleski Family Dentistry if you are considering getting an implant. We take time to assess your dental health condition before recommending a suitable treatment modality. Contact 412 813-3131 to schedule your dental implant consultation. |
