Implant Dentistry is categorized as a form of prosthetic, or artificial replacement dentistry, but is also considered a form of cosmetic dentistry. Dental implants are titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone, beneath your gum. Once in place, they are ready for replacement, or prosthetic teeth to be mounted on them.

Dental implants act as replacements for roots, giving a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth or bridges, and are designed to match your teeth. Dentures or bridges mounted to your implants won’t slip or shift in your mouth, enabling you to eat and speak normally.

The process of fusion between your dental implant and jawbone is called osseointegration. Titanium is a material that allows the implants to integrate with the bone without the body identifying it as a foreign material, resulting in excellent outcomes. Today, the success rate for dental implants is about 98%.

Implant surgery is a two-part process. The first part is the actual implant surgery and initial tooth extractions and bone grafting if necessary, while the second part entails ensuring a good fit and creation of your permanent prosthesis.

The stimulation from chewing promotes bone growth in the jaw bone but when teeth are missing and the stimulation is gone, dramatic bone loss can occur. For dental implants, bone grafting is a way to regenerate bone growth in an area where a tooth is missing. Bone is necessary for patients receiving an implant because the base of the implant must be anchored into the jaw bone. These grafts can be taken from various bone sources including synthetic materials, the patient, an animal, or another human. The bone is then grafted or placed in the area where the implant will go and act as a base for the new growth to build on eventually replacing the bone graft material.

Historically, there have been two types of dental implants, endosteal and subperiosteal. Endosteal, the most commonly used procedure, refers to implants surgically implanted directly into the bone, while subperiosteal are implants consisting of a metal frame that rests on top of the jawbone under the gum tissue. In both procedures, an artificial tooth (or teeth) is mounted onto the post individually or grouped on a bridge or denture.

Additional dental implant options include All-on-4® or Teeth in a Day. These systems can replace an entire arch - all of your upper or lower natural teeth.

All-on-4 is a system of dental implants that can replace all of your teeth. It’s especially good for anyone who is missing most or all of their natural teeth. This is because All-on-4 implants can replace an entire arch (all of your upper or lower teeth) all at once. These techniques utilize four implants to lock your new teeth in place. Unlike conventional implants, All-on-4 and Teeth in a Day can be secured in a single visit rather than the typical six months and can heal in as little as six to eight weeks.

Many of our patients are curious to learn about the cost of dental implants. As you can imagine, every case is unique so your best bet is to schedule a consultation at our Lathrup South or Milford locations. Our Specialty Services leaders will review your financing and payment options, including third-party financing and Care Credit.

Implants need the same care as your real teeth, including brushing, flossing, rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash, and regular dental check-ups and cleanings.

Historically, a patient needing a dental implant would be referred to an oral surgeon by their general dentist. Today, however, many general dentists have extensive surgery training and experience and are able to place implants. At Fortson Dentistry, we have trained with a top Prosthodontist, Dr. Albert Wesley, but rest assured, if your case is more complex than we can confidently handle, we will refer you to a specialist.

Dental implants are very common in the United States. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, over 3 million people have dental implants in the United States and about 500,000 implants are placed each year. Dental Implants are not only common but they are extremely beneficial for patients with missing teeth.

TALK TO THE EXPERTS

‍If you are considering dental implants in Southfield, Lathrup Village, Berkley, Oak Park, Madison Heights, Birmingham, Royal Oak or the surrounding area, give us a call at Fortson Dentistry. You can schedule a consultation with Fortson Dentistry to learn more about dental implants and how they can restore your smile.