Are Dental Implants For You?

	A dental implant is a titanium fixture that is implanted in the jaw. It can replace a single tooth or it can be a support for a bridge or a denture.
Replacing missing teeth has always been a challenge for dentists, but fortunately we have added another way to replace teeth that offers many advantages over conventional methods. Dental implants allow a missing tooth to be replaced without altering or trimming down neighboring teeth that would serve as anchors for a bridge, or without relying on neighboring teeth that are not strong enough to support a bridge. Partial dentures and full dentures can be supported or retained by implants so that the function of the denture is greatly improved. The problem of a lower full denture that moves around when talking or eating can often be corrected by placing two implants in the lower jaw that hold the denture in place. Once dental implants are placed, the gradual deterioration that takes place in your jawbone where teeth are missing is slowed or eliminated.
How Do Dental Implants Work?	Dental implants are titanium fixtures placed in the jaw by an oral surgeon and allowed to heal for 3 – 6 months. The implants are then uncovered and your dentist makes teeth that attach to the implants. We have seen great success with dental implants, although they are not for everyone. Dental implants can fail, especially if they are not cleaned properly. Dr. Radakovich can determine whether you are a suitable candidate for replacing missing teeth with dental implants by discussing with you your goals and priorities for replacing your teeth, as well as performing an oral examination and taking appropriate radiographs.