Contemporary Dental Prosthetics
The dental prosthetic (replacement tooth/teeth) that most closely resembles nature's design is the dental implant. Each of our teeth has two primary structural components: a crown and a root. The root extends into the jaw as an anchor. The crown is the white part of the tooth that we can see. Dental implants also have two primary components: a post and a crown.
The Implant Procedure
Dr. Allen works with a trusted oral surgeon in an interdisciplinary approach to dental implant procedures. As a general dentist, Dr. Allen oversees the case, coordinates with the oral surgeon, and designs and places the dental prosthetic. The oral surgeon places the implant posts during a brief surgical procedure.
All in all, dental implants take three to six months from start to finish. Once the implant posts are secure, bone naturally integrates with them during a process called osseointegration. This can take a few months, and the time varies between patients. You will wear temporary implants during the osseointegration phase.
Once your implant posts are stable, Dr. Allen will remove your temporaries and secure permanent prosthetics, either a crown, bridge, partial, or denture, to your implant posts.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- Implants are independently anchored and do not rely on other teeth or gums for support.
- Because implants have a post in the jaw, they stimulate bone tissue, which reduces the potential for jawbone degeneration – a common problem for people missing teeth.
- For denture wearers, implants eliminate the need for adhesives and special denture cleaning routines. Implant patients no longer experience loose, slipping, or ill-fitting dentures.
- With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
- Implants allow a person to eat, speak, and smile as if he or she had healthy natural teeth.
An Invitation for Your Family
At our dental office in Pella, Iowa, Dr. Jeffrey Allen provides comfortable dental care to patients of all ages. Call (641) 628-1121 today to schedule a checkup and cleaning, cosmetic consultation, or second-opinion visit.
