A visit to the dentist isn’t always about a cleaning and oral check-up. Sometimes people come in for root canals, fillings, or other restorative dental work, such as a dental implant. Don’t worry, a trip to Dr. Fulmer’s office can be a relaxing, anxiety-free experience.
If you are worried about receiving a dental implant, don’t be. A dental implant is an effective, attractive, and secure way to fill gaps in your smile, while preserving your existing teeth. Not to mention, you will be able to smile more confidently once the procedure is complete. When teeth are lost because of disease or an accident (not wearing a mouthguard when playing sports), dental implants may be a good option.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
- Implants offer firm support to your teeth, and won’t slip or shift in your mouth — which is important when you are eating or speaking.
- Implant-supported dentures are more comfortable than traditional dentures.
- Dental implants help keep the jawbone from shrinking.
- Implants are a good value, because they can last a lifetime with good care.
Dental implants are an effective way to replace a single tooth or several missing teeth. Here are several reasons why you may want to choose dental implants:
- You hide your smile because you have missing teeth.
- You are dissatisfied with your removable partial dentures.
- You wear dentures that are uncomfortable.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jawbone to replace the root of one or more missing teeth. Once in place, they allow Dr. Fulmer to mount replacement teeth to them.
There are two types of dental implants that the American Dental Association considers to be safe:
- Endosteal Implants – These are surgically implanted directly into the jawbone. Once the surrounding gum tissue has healed, a second surgery is needed to connect a post to the original implant. The artificial tooth or teeth are then attached to the post individually or grouped together on a bridge or denture.
- Subperiosteal Implants – These implants consist of a metal frame that is fitted onto the jawbone just below the gum tissue. As the gums heal, the frame will become fixed to the jawbone. As with endosteal implants, the artificial teeth are then mounted to the posts.
Dental implants are usually more expensive than other methods of tooth replacement options. Dr. Fulmer will discuss all of the costs with you and determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. To receive implants, you need to have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant. You will also need to commit to keeping the implants healthy. Meticulous oral hygiene and regular dental visits are critical to the long-term success of the implants.
Dr. Fulmer has performed hundreds of dental implant procedures and he has first-hand knowledge of how much easier the procedure has become for him to perform and for the patient to endure. Dr. Fulmer will conduct the implant procedure according to the highest standards in the industry. Call Dr. Fulmer to discuss if a dental implant is appropriate for you.
