What are dental implants?

Dental implants are individual replacements for lost teeth. A dental implant includes a titanium post, an abutment, and a crown. The titanium post is inserted into your jaw and acts like a replacement root. This is important as the roots of your teeth provide stimulation and support to your jawbone, helping it to keep it strong and healthy.

The abutment connects the post to the crown. The crown is the false tooth that corrects your smile and helps keep the neighboring teeth in place. Dental implants are a popular solution to lost adult teeth as they look very natural and are taken care of the same way as natural teeth. 

Why would I need dental implants?

Dental implants can replace a single tooth or all of your teeth. Dr. Kim will provide individualized advice on whether or not dental implants are the best option for you to replace any lost teeth.

How are dental implants placed?

If your gums and jaw are healthy, you’ll need three visits to complete the installation of your dental implants. You may need additional appointments if bone grafting is necessary to strengthen your jaw to support the implants. Once Dr. Kim is satisfied with the health of your jaw, the installation will begin.

The titanium posts will be implanted into the jaw during the first appointment. Then several weeks later, to allow the titanium to fuse with your jaw, the abutment will be placed with temporary crowns. If you’re having implants to fill a gap between natural teeth, a mold will be taken of the gap and the surrounding teeth. 

This mold will allow the dental lab technicians to create the crowns for your implants that fit exactly into your mouth and look natural with its neighbors. During the final appointment, your custom crown is attached and buffed and shined to create a smooth, natural-looking false tooth.

How long will a dental implant last?

With proper hygiene and care, your dental implants should last a lifetime.

How do I take care of my dental implants?

Dental implants are taken care of the same way you would care for natural teeth.

Brush them at least twice a day, floss at least once a day, and Dr. Kim is always ready to check his patients for regular dental checkups. While the implants will not decay or stain, it is still important for Dr. Kim to keep an eye on your overall oral health.

If you’ve lost any of your adult teeth and think that implants might be a good solution for you, please call our office as Dr. Kim will offer you the best options for your dental concerns.