Dental Implants
in Raleigh, NC

Are you suffering from the effects of missing teeth? Our team in Brier Creek has the perfect solution for you – dental implants!

Dental implants are a revolutionary treatment option that restores the patient’s oral function, appearance, and health for better smiles and better futures. One of the unique qualities of implants is that they bond with the natural anatomy of the jaw, rather than merely resting above the gum tissue. 

The Parts of a Dental Implant

The implant is placed during a simple surgical procedure and allowed to heal before additional components are connected; the full appliance consists of three separate pieces that work together to restore the entire tooth structure – including the tooth root! These pieces are as follows:

• Implant post – The implant post is the anchor for the entire restoration. Embedded in the jawbone beneath the gum tissue, the post is strategically placed in a location where it can take hold and fuse to surrounding connective tissue. This creates the most secure foundation for the full implant. 
• Abutment – The abutment acts as a connecting component that links the post to the prosthetic. Acting as a base for the restorative piece, the abutment brings the full appliance together.
• Prosthetic restoration – The prosthetic restoration is the final piece of the implant that sits above the gum tissue and aesthetically replaces the missing tooth or teeth. Our office offers these restorations in the form of single dental crowns, implant-supported bridges, and implant-supported dentures. These components aid the appearance of the smile, as well as function when chewing and speaking.

The Implant Process

The process of installing a dental implant is generally straightforward and involves consultation and preparation, placement, and restoration. 

• First, we will take x-rays and a CT scan of the mouth in order to determine your candidacy and where the implants should be placed. 
• Then, surgery will be performed so that implants can be placed into the jawbone. 
• Once a healing time of roughly three months has concluded, abutments will be connected and the restorative appliance will be attached. This completes the process.

A dental implant can have a profound effect on a patient’s life, and we are delighted to offer them at our practice. To learn more about the different types of dental implants we offer, we invite you to read below. If you have any questions or would like to determine your eligibility, schedule a consultation with our practice today! 

Single Tooth Implant

A single dental implant is an implant designed to replace a single missing tooth, or multiple missing teeth in different regions of the mouth. The implant is placed into the jawbone and a crown is connected to it with the abutment. The dental crown is custom-created, just for you! This is to ensure it blends with your smile and matches the shade, shape, and size of any surrounding teeth.

With all the implant components working together, the single dental implant gives you your smile back while improving jawbone density and overall function of the mouth.

Implant-Supported Bridges

A dental implant-supported bridge is a type of restorative appliance that is used to replace multiple missing teeth in a sequence. Unlike traditional bridges, this system of components does not necessitate any adjustment, alteration, or attachment to natural, healthy teeth; instead, the bridge is connected to implants.

This type of bridge is made up of multiple pieces – similar to the single implant, implant posts and abutments are used; this is followed by the integration of a bridge prosthetic. The bridge is made up of multiple dental crowns that are fused together to fill in a gap left by missing teeth. Once the patient’s custom bridge has been created, it is attached to abutments on either side of the smile gap to provide a secure, functional hold and a beautiful, complete smile.

This type of bridge is a suitable option for patients who are missing multiple teeth and want to avoid having their natural teeth reshaped to support a restoration. As it is a fixed appliance, this is also a good option for patients who feel uncomfortable wearing partial dentures.

There are many benefits to choosing an implant-supported bridge over traditional bridges. 

• First, because the bridge is supported by implants, it is much more stable.
• Bridges supported by implants do not rely on or negatively affect the neighboring natural teeth. 
• Additionally, implant-supported bridges look and feel more natural than traditional bridges, and they are easier to clean and maintain.

If you are missing multiple teeth and are looking for an attractive, durable solution, contact our office to schedule a consultation. We will be happy to discuss the options available to you and help you choose the best solution for your needs.

Implant-Supported Dentures

The implant-supported denture is a denture that is held in place by dental implants. Capable of restoring a full arch of missing teeth, this is a great option for patients seeking a full restoration along their upper or lower dental arch. 

Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures do not require adhesive or suction to stay in place and instead acquire their stability from the jawbone. The denture snaps onto a series of implants placed along the arch for full functional wear and a natural appearance. At the end of the day, they can be easily removed for cleaning and oral hygiene maintenance.

Implant-supported dentures are a popular alternative to traditional dentures, as they offer a more comfortable fit and dependable hold. They are less likely to move or slip out of place, making them a better option for eating any favorite foods, or ensuring smile security! Dentures supported by implants are not only more reliable than their traditional design, but they can also help to preserve the natural bone structure in your jaw. Every time you eat, speak, smile, or otherwise utilize your dentures, the activity connects with the implants and stimulates the growth and strength of the jawbone. 

If you are considering implant-supported dentures, be sure to schedule a consultation to see if you are a good candidate. With the help of the experienced team at our practice, you can restore your smile and improve your oral health with this modern dental appliance.