WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS?

Imagine a special metal replacement “tooth root” that is used to support your new sparkling white teeth and that is a dental implant. Implants are surgically positioned into the jawbone to support the new tooth or teeth that looks and functions naturally to replace the missing ones. Aside from getting back the beauty and function that was lost, it also helps to conserve remaining bone, consequently maintaining the face’s natural contours.  Dental implants are so flexible, that is used to replace from single tooth to multiple teeth, which includes removable dentures on either upper or lower jaw or both.

BENEFITS OF DENTAL IMPLANTS

Can you still recall way back when you were still able to flaunt that stunning smile and be able to eat and chew your favourite food without worry of being embarrassed? Well, you can experience once again that time of your life with beautiful, natural-looking, functional teeth by the wonder of dental implants.  You can worry no more of embarrassing moments, nor having to choose the food that you can or cannot eat, and prevention of “melting” of the jawbone that happens when natural teeth are lost, leading to premature aging of the face. With dental implants, those days are history, as your dental implants and new teeth, regain that self-confidence and sense of well-being that are so essential.  Of course, the natural teeth that you once had are almost always favoured. Every so often, tooth loss is unavoidable, due to accident, gum disease, and among other reasons. However, dental implants present an incredibly natural replacement for missing teeth, both in appearance and function.  Just imagine how wonderful it would feel to be able to eat well once again and to bring back that youthful appearance! You now have access to the finest that dental science has to offer.

HOW LONG WILL DENTAL IMPLANTS LAST?

It is safe to say that dental implants can last as long or longer than natural teeth, which are designed to last a lifetime.  Dental implants can last a lifetime as well.  However, the stability of dental implants can be affected by poor oral hygiene and gum infection, just as natural teeth. Tooth decay has no effect on them.  This simply means that proper oral hygiene and professional care by Dr. Jonathan Echols can provide you with not only dental implants that can indeed last a lifetime, but also bring back that beautiful smile.

AM I A CANDIDATE FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS?

In general, if you have missing teeth and you are in practically good health, you are a candidate for dental implants.  That is important.  However, there are several conditions and diseases that can hinder you from having dental implants.  Most forms of cancer, radiation to the jaws, uncontrolled diabetes, and poor oral hygiene are some the common reasons that can affect your status as a candidate for dental implants.  A thorough evaluation of your current medical condition and any medications you may be taking will be done by Dr. Jonathan Echols to see if dental implants are recommended for you.

WHAT DIFFERENCES WILL I NOTICE IN MY OVERALL WELL-BEING WITH DENTAL IMPLANTS?

There are a number of differences that you will notice.  First and foremost is the positive impact on your overall health.  Our health greatly depends on good nutrition to help maintain, or improve it. We are what we eat. It is primarily important to be able to chew and eat the multitude of healthy, nutritious, and delicious foods that you want.  You would not choose to depend on a diet that is potentially unhealthy and unpleasant.  With dental implants you can enjoy eating those delicious, nutritious foods just as others would.  Second, replacing your missing teeth with dental implants can have an amazing effect on your sense of well-being and enjoyment of life.  Getting back that zest for living that we all desire is one of the most evident benefits. Dr. Echols has personally witnessed this several times with his patients.

TYPE OF DENTAL IMPLANTS:

1. Single Tooth Implant –  can be used to replace one or more missing teeth

2. Multiple Tooth Implants –  best recommended for people who have numerous damaged teeth in a consecutive row, regardless of the position.

3. Full Mouth Reconstruction – a wide-ranging rehabilitation therapy and a complex process that involves not only teeth but the treatment of the entire mouth as well