Implants

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are small, screw-like posts that an oral surgeon inserts into your jaw during an outpatient procedure. Following placement, the posts integrate with your jawbone, providing a durable base for restorations like crowns, fixed dentures, or a bridge.

At Davidson Dental Group, Dr. Davidson specializes in dental implant restoration. If you need to receive dental implants first, Dr. Davidson can coordinate treatment with an oral surgeon in the area.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants offer many benefits, including:

• Easier biting and chewing
• Clearer speech
• Convenience
• Durability
• More defined facial structure

Dental implants also improve your oral hygiene. By replacing one (or multiple) teeth with implants, you can reduce the risk of other issues, including gum recession and your healthy remaining teeth from shifting out of position.

What does getting dental implants involve?

If you have healthy gums and enough jawbone to support one (or several) implants, Dr. Davidson refers you to an oral surgeon for dental implant placement. Once you receive the implants, your mouth heals for several months while the implants integrate with your jawbone.

When the healing process is complete, you return to Davidson Dental Group. Dr. Davidson takes digital scans of your mouth and sends them to a dental facility that manufactures your custom restorations.  

A few weeks later, when the facility completes your bridge, fixed dentures, or dental crowns, you visit Davidson Dental Group for the last time. Dr. Davidson attaches the restoration to your dental implants and provides care instructions. 

How long do implants last?

Dental implants are incredibly sturdy and often last a lifetime with good oral hygiene. To extend their use, Dr. Davidson recommends:

• Brushing your teeth twice daily
• Visiting Davidson Dental Group every six months for an oral exam and teeth cleaning
• Avoiding bad habits like biting your nails or opening packaging with your teeth
• Wearing a mouthguard to protect your implants while playing sports, or if diagnosed with biting problems or TMJ

If you grind your teeth, it’s also a good idea to wear a nightguard. The custom oral appliance provides a protective barrier around your restorations, reducing the risk of damage. 

To learn more about the benefits of restoring your smile with dental implants, make an appointment at Davidson Dental Group by calling the office today or scheduling online.