Dental implants: Restore the function and appearance of missing teeth in Greensboro, NC
Facing tooth loss can be difficult – in addition to affecting the way you chew your food and speak, one or more missing teeth can also impact your appearance. At Triad Dentistry in Greensboro, NC, we offer several tooth replacement options to help restore not just your smile, but also your self-confidence. Dental implants are a tooth replacement option that many patients choose, and for good reason – they are incredibly versatile and offer a number of oral health benefits in addition to looking and feeling great.
How dental implants replace missing teeth?
Every tooth in your mouth has two main parts: the crown, which is the part that you see above the gum line, and the root, which is the part beneath the gum line that keeps your tooth firmly anchored in your jaw. Dental implants are small screw-like dental restorations that are designed to replace the missing tooth root. After being surgically placed in your jawbone in an outpatient procedure, the dental implant fuses with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration, forming a highly stable and functional foundation for your replacement tooth.
Benefits of dental implants
While dental implants are both a time and financial investment, many patients find it is worth the wait and cost because of their numerous benefits. Dental implants:
- Are versatile: From a single tooth replacement to supporting a full arch of dentures, dental implants can be used in several ways (read on to learn more below)
- Offer unparalleled stability and function: Simply put, dental implants are the most stable and long-lasting tooth replacement option; because the implant replaces the missing tooth root, it provides an incredibly strong and supportive foundation for your false tooth and can last a lifetime when you take good care of your teeth
- Promote bone health: When you lose a tooth, the jawbone in that area no longer receives the stimulatory forces that it normally would when you chew your food daily; as a result, your jawbone begins to deteriorate over time and can lead to oral health issues and make your cheeks look “sunken in”
- Do not require alteration of surrounding teeth: Some tooth replacement options require the alteration of the neighboring healthy teeth (for example, to place a crown on them), but a dental implant is a true single tooth replacement option that does not negatively impact the surrounding teeth
- Prevent other teeth from shifting in your mouth: When you lose one or more teeth, your other teeth will naturally begin to shift into the open space left by the missing teeth, which can cause issues with your bite and unnecessary wear and tear on your other teeth; by replacing the missing teeth with dental implants, you can prevent this issue from occurring
- Take years off of your appearance: By filling in your cheeks and restoring the appearance of your smile, dental implants can make you look years younger!
Types of implants
Thanks to modern dental advances, there are several types of dental implants that can be used to serve a variety of patient needs. Traditional implants are about the width and length of a small screw. The traditional method of placing a single dental implant typically occurs in a series of at least three visits:
- In the first visit, we surgically place the implant in your jawbone using precision and high-quality dental materials for the best results. Afterwards, the healing and fusion process begins and takes place over the next few months.
- After your implant has healed, we will make a small incision in your gums to reveal the implant and place a small connecting piece called an abutment on top. This piece is what your false tooth will be placed on.
- In the final step, your natural-looking, custom-crafted replacement tooth (typically a crown) is placed on top of the implant.
However, these steps may vary depending on the type of implant and tooth replacement you are getting. For example, some patients may choose implant-supported dentures, in which a small number of implants are strategically placed in the mouth to support a full arch of dentures. Mini implants are also available, which are smaller in size than traditional implants and can often be placed in just one visit rather than a series of visits.
Watch How Dental Implants Process Greensboro NC
The magic of Dental Implants at Triad Dentistry
There are a couple of different ways we do implants.
Implants can be done from one tooth to a row of teeth.
All-on-4® and All-on-6 ™ are techniques on offer for a total or partial loss of teeth.
These teeth do not come in and out and only a dentist can remove these teeth as they are fixed permanently.
The great thing about implants is they do not get decayed and have the strength and durability of a natural tooth.
Materials that we use are so strong and the implants are super strong.
Implant is always the best choice if you have the bone and is the only treatment option that is going to maintain the bone.
With something removable such as a bridge, flipper or a partial you still get bone loss. But with implants it will maintain the bone that is usually a go to solution for missing teeth.
Why a bone graft may be recommended?
For an implant to successfully fuse with the jawbone, there needs to be sufficient healthy bone structure in place. If you have been missing a tooth for an extended period or your jawbone has degraded due to disease and decay, we may recommend that you undergo a procedure called a bone graft before getting dental implants placed. Bone grafting helps boost your bone tissue and restore its structure in the area that the implant will be placed to ensure that the implant is successful.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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. Victoria L. Santiago-Coiro is a highly experienced dentist with over 16 years in practice, specializing in comprehensive dental care. She holds a degree in Molecular Biology from Montclair State University and graduated from UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School in 2005. Dr. Santiago-Coiro earned a Fellowship from the Academy of General Dentistry in 2011 and is advancing toward Scholar status with the Dawson Academy, focusing on complex bite and TMJ issues. Her commitment to continuous learning and patient care reflects her dedication to providing exceptional dental care.
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.
Schedule your consultation at Triad Dentistry
If you are interested in learning more about dental implants and whether they are right for you, the team of dental professionals at Triad Dentistry is here to answer your questions and provide an in-depth consultation on the best tooth replacement options for your individual oral health needs and preferences. We will also take the time to explain dental implant costs and walk through the pros and cons of your treatment options. To schedule your consultation at our Greensboro, NC dental practice, call (336) 383-1482 today!
Restore the function and appearance of missing teeth
