Tooth loss can happen for any number of reasons, including facial trauma, periodontal disease, or dental neglect. The options available to replace missing teeth have come a long way since old-fashioned dentures, with dental implants representing the highest standard of care. Dental implants allow you to restore your smile’s full form and function so you can enjoy long-lasting and natural-looking results. At Greater Michigan Oral Surgeons & Dental Implant Center, we are pleased to deliver implant care to our patients in the Oxford, MI community.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small rod, typically made from titanium, that is surgically inserted into the jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. The implant fuses with the surrounding bone, making it a permanent part of your smile. A custom-made replacement tooth is added to the implant, made to look and behave just like your natural teeth. This replacement tooth may be a single crown, though bridges and dentures can also be supported by implants.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
For patients in the Oxford, MI area, dental implants are generally considered to be the gold standard for smile restoration. There are a number of reasons why dental implants are the preferred method of tooth replacement:
- Due to the durable nature of titanium, dental implants are designed to function for at least 10 years. With a consistent approach to oral hygiene, you can potentially extend the life of your implants much longer.
- By fusing with your jawbone, your implants provide the ongoing stimulation needed to prevent your bone from reabsorbing. This lets you avoid any unwanted changes to your facial structure and appearance.
- After they have had a chance to heal completely, your dental implants will provide the security you need for a strong and healthy bite, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods as usual.
Can You Benefit from Dental Implants?
By scheduling a consultation with Greater Michigan Oral Surgeons & Dental Implant Center, you can learn more about your eligibility for a safe and successful dental implant surgery.
During your consultation, you will meet with one of our board-certified oral surgeons, who will examine your teeth and jaw, ask some questions about your medical history, and review relevant medical images. Based on this information, your doctor will tell you more about whether dental implants are right for you.
Ideal candidates for dental implant placement:
- Are either missing teeth or anticipating tooth extraction.
- Do not have any gum disease that is unmanaged or untreated.
- Have adequate jawbone or are candidates for bone grafting.
The Dental Implant Process
Greater Michigan Oral Surgeons & Dental Implant Center provides personalized treatment plans for each of our dental implant patients. The process involves a few basic steps:
Initial Consultation
The initial consultation provides your doctor with an opportunity to examine your mouth and verify that you are well-suited for surgery. The consultation also gives you a chance to ask any questions you may have about dental implant treatment.
Preparing for Surgery
In some cases, you will need to undergo preparatory procedures to ensure you are ready for dental implants. These initial procedures may involve tooth extractions for non-viable teeth or treatment for gum infections.
The Day of Surgery
When you arrive for surgery, our patient care team will welcome you back to a private treatment room and then administer anesthesia to ensure your comfort and safety. The total timeline for dental implant surgery is usually between one and two hours.
Recovering from Surgery
Once your surgery is completed, you will be discharged and advised to allow multiple months for your implants to fully heal. Some discomfort can be expected during the first couple of days, but this can be mitigated with over-the-counter pain relievers. Adherence to a soft food and liquid diet is recommended for the first several days.
Completing Your Smile
Once your implants have fully fused with the surrounding bone, you will return to your dentist for the placement of your permanent replacement teeth. This completes your confident, healthy smile.
Why Choose Greater Michigan Oral Surgeons?
At Greater Michigan Oral Surgeons & Dental Implant Center, we are proud to be the dental implant provider of choice for patients in Oxford, MI. Our doctors have achieved the highest standards of training, equipping them to prioritize your comfort and safety while also ensuring optimal clinical outcomes. We also use best-in-class technologies to promote optimal results and to ensure a smooth and seamless patient experience.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation in Oxford, MI
Seize your second chance at a healthy smile. At Greater Michigan Oral Surgeons & Dental Implant Center, we are proud to offer comprehensive dental implant care for patients in the Oxford, MI area. Reach out to us today to schedule a dental implant consultation with one of our oral surgeons.