We always want to keep our teeth and smiles intact. Tooth loss happens, however, due to aging and other oral concerns like tooth decay or gum disease. While dentures and bridges were the treatments once widely used for replacing teeth, today dental implants provide a more advanced solution.
Implants are artificial roots and teeth (in most cases titanium) that are surgically placed into the jawbone below the gum line. The dental implant itself acts as an artificial tooth root that fuses to the bone in the jaw. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking, and have become the best alternative for dentures and bridges.
Reasons for dental implants:
- Replace one/multiple missing teeth without affecting neighboring teeth
- Restore chewing and speech
- Resolve bite problems caused by a missing tooth space
- Support for a denture, making it more stable
Placing a dental implant involves multiple steps. The treatment can take anywhere from 3-8 months depending on a variety of factors. Your dentist will be able to give you a more accurate timeline based on your individual needs.
Radiographs and impressions are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine the amount of bone, gum tissue, and space that’s available for an implant. This may include a 3D image called a Cone-Beam CT (CBCT).
After numbing the area, the implant will be surgically placed into bone and allowed to heal anywhere from 3-6 months. This process is known as osseointegration. Depending on the type of implant, the dentist may need to do a second stage surgery that allows the gum tissue to heal in an ideal position.
When the area is fully healed, your artificial tooth will be made and perfectly fitted to the implant. At Belmont Dental, this is done by taking an impression and either making the tooth with the CEREC, or sending it to a dental laboratory.
You’ll receive care instructions when your treatment is completed. As with any dental restoration, implants are subject to normal wear and tear and may need to be tightened or even replaced over time.
Get quality dental implants from Belmont Dental Associates by Dr. Robert W. Bury and Dr. Taylor B. Bury at York, PA, for you and your loved ones. For more details and appointments, call us at (717) 848-1463, book online, or visit us at 3210 E Market Street, York, PA 17402.
MON 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
TUE 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
WED 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
THU 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
FRI - SUN Closed