The Most Advanced Dental Implant Program in the Bay Lakes Region

Are your dentures uncomfortable or bulky? Do you have difficulty chewing or speaking clearly? Are you sick of adhesives that just don’t seem to work? Are you wondering if there’s a better alternative? If you’re considering transitioning from dentures to dental implants, Bay Lakes Center for Complex Dentistry is here to help.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are permanent rods surgically implanted into your jaw onto which realistic artificial teeth are attached. The bone of your jaw actually fuses with the titanium posts while you heal from the surgery, forming a strong, permanent connection. Once this connection is formed, a prosthetic tooth or teeth are attached. Made of acrylic, porcelain, or a tooth-colored substance called zirconia, the replacement teeth are specially designed to fit your mouth and match any remaining teeth. Our dental practice also has mini dental implants, if you're interested in those as well.

Why are Implants so Popular?

Dental implants are an extremely popular choice because they look, fit, and feel like real teeth. No more slipping or difficulty chewing or talking. The posts are permanent, and the attached teeth are semi-permanent; only your dentist can remove them. Even better, implants can actually prevent loss of bone density.

Why Would I Choose Dentures?

Dentures have been around for centuries, but that doesn’t mean there haven’t been some exciting new advances. Today’s dentures are made from acrylic or porcelain and can be custom-fitted to your mouth. If dentures fit properly, they shouldn’t slip or impair speech. Dentures are simple. They are removable, painless, easy to replace, and relatively inexpensive.

What Are The Pros and Cons of Each?

Dentures are inexpensive, removable, and easy to put on. Best of all, you can get them custom made; no surgery required. However, even the best dentures can feel bulky and may impair speech and chewing. They require adhesives, which can be frustrating. But the common complaint with dentures is that they do not look natural. They may not match any existing teeth and may cause your lips and teeth to protrude more than normal.

Dental implants are the best way to restore your smile. They are a permanent solution that look and feel like real teeth. Because they mimic your body’s natural tooth structure, they can restore facial drooping caused by missing teeth. Even better, they can prevent the loss of bone density. However, there are downsides. Implantation is a surgical procedure, with the incumbent risks of infection, bleeding and other complications. It takes a long time - often months - before your permanent artificial teeth are attached, and in the meantime, you have to wear a temporary prosthetic that may limit your diet.

Not everyone is a good candidate for dental implants. Ideally, candidates for implants do not smoke or drink alcohol - as these substances can slow the healing process, have healthy gums and good oral hygiene, have enough bone density to support the implants, and are old enough that their jaw is done growing. People with chronic diseases like diabetes or cancer are at higher risk of implant failure. That being said, most people are good candidates for dental implants.

Do I Have Enough Jawbone for Dental Implants

Dental implants are an excellent restorative option for those missing one or more permanent teeth. The process relies on the strength of a patient's jawbone and gingival tissues to secure the implant into place. Inadequate bone density can prevent individuals from exploring this solution, leaving them with fewer options for lasting tooth replacement. While some people interested in this restoration may be unsure whether they meet the necessary requirements to get implants, it's important to know exactly what is involved before implant surgery.

Both dentures and dental implants are good options for people who are missing teeth. Dentures are simple to use, easy to fit, and are inexpensive. Dental implants are a permanent solution that offers replacement teeth that fit, feel and function like real teeth. If you are interested in learning more, contact our experts at Bay Lakes Center for Complex Dentistry. Call (920) 278-7678 to book your consultation today.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are a long lasting and permanent tooth restoration method. They have a high success rate, of up to 98 percent. Dental implant posts that are well taken care of can last 15 to 25 years. The dental crown on top of the implant may need to be replaced after 15 years, just because it receives the most wear and tear.

To protect your dental implants and care for their longevity, be sure to brush twice a day and floss daily. It is also important to attend your regular dental appointments so that we can monitor your implants.

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

Ideal candidates for dental implants are those in good general and oral health with sufficient jawbone to support the implant. Patients who smoke or have certain chronic diseases may require additional evaluations to ensure successful implantation.

Procedures prior to dental implantation may be required if you have any conditions that need cleared up beforehand, such as periodontal disease.

Bone grafts, sinus lifts, and other procedures can be performed as well, to get your mouth and gums ready to sustain the dental implant.

How long is the dental implant process?

The success of dental implant surgery hinges on meticulous planning and precision. The procedure typically involves several stages, including initial consultation, implant placement, and the attachment of the prosthetic tooth or teeth.

The dental implant process typically spans several months, allowing for healing and osseointegration. Anticipate a period of three to six months to ensure proper fusion with the bone before the final prosthetic teeth are affixed.

Is Dental Implant Surgery Painful?

Dental implant placement constitutes an invasive procedure, but local anesthesia is administered to ensure optimal comfort. While some discomfort and swelling may ensue following surgery, these symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Most patients report minimal pain and mild discomfort during recovery, with such symptoms typically subsiding within a few days.

What Are the Risks/Potential Complications?

The risks associated with dental implants are minimal. In rare cases, dental implants may cause infection, become loose, or fail altogether. Be sure to notify the dentist if you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects such as facial swelling, fever, nausea or vomiting, or if something just feels off with your dental implants. Our Bay Lakes Center for Complex Dentistry will schedule you for an appointment right away to find out what is going on.

Additional Info:
Single Tooth Implant
Dental Implant Procedure
Dental Implant Placement