Dental implants are a common restorative treatment for replacing missing teeth. Dr. Emily Ann Reece uses the latest technology to provide quality implants to her patients in Cary, NC. If you have a missing tooth or teeth, dental implants can be a great option. They help with oral health, bring back your smile, and improve your overall well-being.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small, screw-like device made of strong titanium. It works like a tooth root and holds a replacement tooth in place. You may need one or more implants depending on how many teeth are missing. Sometimes, only one implant is needed, while in other cases, you may need several.
During the procedure, your dentist places the implant into your jawbone. Over a few months, the bone grows around the implant, creating a strong hold. This process, called “osseointegration,” usually takes between three and six months. Once healed, the implant can hold a crown, bridge, or denture to complete your smile.
There are a few types of dental implants based on size and where they go in the mouth:
- Standard Implants: These implants are about 3.4 to 4.2 mm wide. Dentists often use them toward the front of the mouth, where a thinner, shorter implant is ideal.
- Wide Implants: These are larger, with a width of 4.5 to 6 mm. They work well in the back of the mouth, where there’s more space and need for support. Wide implants help handle strong chewing forces.
- Mini Implants: Mini implants are smaller, ranging from 1.8 to 3.3 mm. They’re helpful when there isn’t much bone space between the roots. They’re also a good choice for patients who don’t have enough bone for a standard implant.
The Benefits of Choosing Dental Implants in Cary, NC
Dental implants offer several long-lasting benefits that make them a great choice for tooth replacement. They are secure, stable, and feel just like natural teeth. Here are some of the top benefits:
- Natural Look and Feel: Dental implants look, fit, and function just like your natural teeth. They blend with your smile and feel secure when you chew or speak.
- Long-Lasting Results: With good dental care and regular check-ups, implants can last a lifetime. They don’t wear out easily, making them a lasting choice for tooth replacement.
- No Food Limits: With dental implants, you can eat the foods you enjoy without worry. They’re strong enough to handle tough foods and don’t restrict your diet like some other options.
- Supports Jaw and Facial Shape: Implants help maintain the natural shape of your face and jaw. They prevent the “sunken” look that can happen with missing teeth.
- Prevents Bone Loss: Implants work like natural tooth roots, giving your jawbone the stimulation it needs to stay healthy. This prevents bone loss, which can lead to further dental issues.
- Clearer Speech: Implants stay in place, so you don’t have to worry about shifting or slipping. This helps with clear speech, giving you more confidence in daily interactions.
- No Messy Adhesives Needed: Unlike some dentures, implants don’t need any adhesives to stay secure. They’re fixed in place, so you don’t need to deal with glue or other products.
- Protects Healthy Teeth: Implants don’t rely on nearby teeth for support, so your natural teeth stay protected. This helps avoid further damage or decay.
Dental implants can make a big difference in your life, but they are a long-term commitment. They need good care, like regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits. If you want a solution that looks, feels, and works like natural teeth, implants are a great choice to consider. With Dr. Reece’s guidance, you can find the right fit for a restored, healthy smile in Cary, NC.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about dental implants, our FAQs can help you learn more. If you still need assistance, call our Cary dental office during regular hours, and we’ll be glad to help.
Do implants need special care?
No, dental implants don’t need special care. You care for them the same way you would for natural teeth. They depend on healthy gums and bones, so brushing and flossing are essential. You can brush and floss implants just as you would your other teeth.
Regular visits to Dr. Reece’s office in Cary for cleanings (at least twice a year) will keep your implants healthy. Good oral hygiene can help your implants last many years.
What is the dental implant success rate?
Dental implants have a high success rate, with more than 95% being successful nationwide. However, certain factors can lower this rate, like smoking or other tobacco use. To keep your implants strong and healthy, take care of them daily, as they’re meant to last a lifetime with proper care.
How should I care for my dental implants?
Caring for your dental implants is simple—just treat them like natural teeth. Without regular cleaning, bacteria can cause issues like gum disease, which could affect your implants. This is why Dr. Reece recommends routine checkups to address any problems early.
If you have existing issues like cavities or gum disease, Dr. Reece can treat these before starting your implant treatment. Regular visits after you receive your implants will also help maintain their health.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Most people can receive dental implants, but good candidates need healthy gums and enough bone to support the implant. If you’ve experienced bone loss, you may need a bone graft before getting implants. This extra step can help ensure the implant stays secure.
Is a dental implant procedure painful?
The level of pain during implant surgery varies for each person. Factors like pain tolerance, overall health, and the case’s complexity all play a role. Dr. Reece uses local anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
After surgery, we may prescribe medication to manage any discomfort. It helps to discuss pain management options with Dr. Reece and our team so that we can make the experience as comfortable as possible.
Can I get dental implants in one day?
Yes, it is possible to get dental implants in one day. This is called “teeth-in-a-day” or same-day implants. In this treatment, the dentist places implants and attaches replacement teeth in a single appointment.
However, not everyone qualifies for this procedure. To be a candidate, you must have enough bone to support multiple implants and meet certain health requirements. Dr. Reece can help you determine if this is an option for you.
Will anyone notice I have dental implants?
In most cases, it’s hard to tell if someone has dental implants. The prosthetic teeth are designed to blend in with your natural teeth, so they look just like part of your smile. A close inspection by a dentist or a dental X-ray is usually needed to confirm if implants are present.
Are dental implants expensive?
While dental implants may cost more than other tooth replacements, they offer long-term benefits that make them a worthwhile investment. Other options, like dentures and bridges, can cause bone loss in the jaw and may slip or need regular adjustments. Implants avoid these issues, and they allow you to eat a wide variety of foods without worry.
After a consultation, we can provide a cost estimate. We also offer payment options, including CareCredit, to help make the process affordable.
We Offer Complete Services for Dental Implants in Cary, NC
Dr. Reece has extensive experience with dental restorations, especially implants. She’s trained in every phase of implant treatment, so you can complete the entire process in our office. From placing the implants to adding crowns or bridges, Dr. Reece handles each step to ensure high-quality results.
Whether you need to replace one tooth or an entire set, our team can create a treatment plan that restores your smile. Call Reedy Creek Family and Cosmetic Dentistry at 919-646-6294 to set up a consultation, or request an appointment online. Dr. Reece and our friendly team are here to answer any questions you have about implants and discuss your dental needs in person.