08
Oct
Office in Greensboro, NC restores smiles with dental implants
Today’s patient is fortunate to have many time-tested treatment choices and current innovations for dental conditions, as materials, techniques, and technologies continue to evolve. Dental implants are a terrific example. If you are in the Greensboro, NC area and are searching for a professional dental office that offers this service, you have come to the right place – Triad Dentistry.
Understanding implants
In medical terms, an implant is natural tissue or an artificial object placed into the body. Most people have heard of artificial lenses to correct cataracts, knees and hips to replace worn out joints, and breast augmentation devices. These are all types of implants. You may not be as familiar, though, with dental implants.
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root. This small screw-shaped device is placed into a precisely-prepared site in the jaw. Since the implant is made of a biocompatible material, it integrates into bone over the course of several months. At that point, the implant performs like a natural tooth root.
Dental implants are frequently used to replace individual missing teeth. Once osseointegration has occurred, a tiny incision is made in gum tissue and an abutment (post) is inserted into the implant. Then, a cemented or screw-retained porcelain crown finishes the tooth restoration.
This is a versatile technique with a number of possible variations as implants are also used to support dental bridges and full dentures.
What are your options?
Dental implants have become very popular, for reasons we will discuss in a moment. However, there are alternatives, and it is Triad Dentistry team’s desire (as well as their ethical responsibility) to help patients make the best dental healthcare decisions for their own unique circumstances.
If you have one missing tooth or several in a row, they can be replaced with a dental bridge. Teeth on either side of the gap are reduced and shaped. The bridge consists of an artificial tooth with crowns at each end that are cemented over the prepared teeth. A bridge differs from a dental implant in that it sits on top of gum tissue, rather than becoming internally fused to bone. Because a bridge is affixed, a bit of special attention is required to keep it clean and flossed. With good oral hygiene, you could get a decade or more of use from a ceramic bridge.
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One or multiple teeth in any position in an arch can be replaced with a partial denture. This removable prosthetic is usually made of acrylic to resemble gum tissue and teeth. It stays in place with metal clips that hug existing teeth. A partial denture lacks the strength and stability of a bridge, but you take it out for easier cleaning.
If you have no teeth in an arch, a conventional denture can be an economical alternative, initially. An upper denture covers the palate, creating suction that anchors it to the bony ridge. The lower arch relies largely on fit and gravity to stay in place.
You can expect to replace a partial or full denture about every five to eight years. Why? When you bite down, the roots of natural teeth tell your body that strong bone is needed in the mouth. Without this stimulation, bone diminishes. That changes the shape of your mouth and face. It also alters the fit of the denture, leading to wear and breakage.
Compelling reasons to consider implants
While bridges, partial dentures, and conventional full dentures remain suitable choices for some patients, others love the carefree comfort of dental implants.
- With modern bone grafting techniques, implants can be an option for most people in reasonably good health.
- A stand-alone implant feels normal in the mouth, looks natural, and functions like your own tooth.
- No special care is required – just brush and floss as usual.
- With an implant-retained bridge for a span of three or more missing teeth, crowns are placed on dental implants. That means no healthy natural teeth need to be ground down.
- An implant does not place stress on anchor teeth, the way a partial denture can.
- An implant-supported full denture is incredibly stable, reinstating eating enjoyment and confidence.
- Implants help to maintain sturdy, attractive facial bone.
- The long-term success rate for dental implants is excellent. With good oral hygiene, an implant can last a lifetime.
Choosing a dental office in Greensboro, NC for implants is easy. Just call (336) 383-1482 to schedule a consultation with one of our doctors.
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Dr. Steven L. Hatcher is a skilled dentist with extensive expertise in oral health and
patient care. A University of North Carolina alumnus with a background in biology and cancer research, Dr.
Hatcher's military service at prestigious locations, including Fort Meade and the Pentagon, underscores his
commitment to excellence. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and an active member of several
professional associations. Recognized for his dedication through numerous awards, including Army
Commendation Medals, Dr. Hatcher continually advances his knowledge through ongoing education. His
patient-centered approach ensures personalized, long-term oral wellness.
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness. His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training, Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families. Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with her patients.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Southern Illinois University, she combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness. His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training, Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families. Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with her patients.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Southern Illinois University, she combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
