Dental implants are a modern and reliable option for replacing missing teeth. They offer great stability, long-lasting results, and a natural look. Compared to dentures, dental implants provide benefits that make them a popular choice for many people. Implants are a type of restorative dentistry that can give you a permanent solution for missing teeth, helping restore both function and appearance.
At Canatella Dental, we focus on providing top-quality care for tooth replacement. Dr. Todd Canatella works closely with each patient to understand their needs, budget, and cosmetic goals. Choosing dental implants with Dr. Canatella means you’ll receive the highest level of care for successful, long-term results. With good care, dental implants can give you a healthy, confident smile for life.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants have three main parts: the implant, the abutment, and the crown. The implant is a small titanium post that goes into the jawbone and acts like a tooth root. It forms a strong base for the replacement tooth. The abutment connects the implant to the crown, which looks and works like a real tooth.
The implant consists of materials that are safe for the body, so it won’t cause any issues. Over time, the implant fuses with the jawbone, a process called osseointegration. This creates a permanent bond, making the implant feel natural and secure. The crown, usually made of porcelain or ceramic, is custom-made to match your other teeth, giving you a smile that looks natural.
Benefits of Dental Implants vs Dentures
Dental implants offer many advantages over traditional dentures:
- Stable Fit: Implants are securely fixed in place, so there’s no need to worry about them slipping like dentures. This means you can talk, eat, and laugh without concern about your teeth moving.
- Long-Lasting: Implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care. Unlike dentures, which need regular adjustments or replacements, implants can handle the daily wear and tear of chewing.
- Bone Health: Implants keep your jawbone strong. When a tooth is missing, the bone can shrink over time, but implants prevent this by stimulating the bone. This keeps your face looking full and youthful.
- Natural Look: Implants look and feel just like your natural teeth. The custom crown will match your other teeth, so your smile looks natural and complete.
- Better Function: Implants let you chew with full strength, allowing you to enjoy all your favorite foods without worry. This improves your overall quality of life, helping you keep a healthy diet.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a great option for people with:
- One or more missing teeth. Implants can replace a single tooth, several teeth, or even support a full set of teeth, offering a flexible solution for different needs.
- Good oral health and enough bone in the jaw. To hold the implant, the jaw needs to have enough bone. If there’s not enough bone, we may suggest a bone graft before we can place the implant.
- A commitment to good oral care. To keep implants in great shape, you need to practice good oral hygiene, like brushing and flossing regularly.
- Overall good health. Some health issues, like uncontrolled diabetes, can affect how well the body heals over the implant. People in good health are the best candidates for implants.
By choosing dental implants, you can restore your smile and enjoy the benefits of a permanent, natural-looking solution. With the right care, dental implants provide a lifetime of benefits, allowing you to speak, eat, and smile with confidence.
The Dental Implant Process
Getting dental implants takes several steps to ensure they work well and last a long time. Knowing what happens during each part of the process can help you feel more at ease and prepared for what’s ahead.
First Consultation
In your first visit, Dr. Canatella will check your teeth and gums, talk about your goals, and see if dental implants are right for you. This usually includes X-rays or 3D scans to look at your bone health and structure. The dentist will also go over your medical history to make sure there are no health concerns that could affect how well the implant heals.
During this visit, the dentist will explain the whole process, the timeline, cost, and any possible risks. You’ll have the chance to ask questions and talk about any concerns you may have about getting implants.
Placing the Implant
Next comes the surgery where the surgeon places the implant in your jawbone. The surgeon uses a titanium post that acts like a tooth root. This is a minor procedure done with local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. After surgery, the implant goes through a healing process called osseointegration, where it fuses with the bone, which can take several months.
During the surgery, Dr. Canatella will make a small cut in the gum to reach the jawbone. A small hole is then drilled into the bone, and the titanium post is carefully placed inside. Once complete, the gum is stitched back over the implant to allow it to heal. You might have some swelling or discomfort after the surgery, but this usually goes away in a few days.
Attaching The Abutment
After the implant heals and joins with the bone, the next step is to attach the abutment. This is the piece that connects the implant to the crown (the new tooth). The abutment is placed during a simple procedure where a bit of gum tissue is removed to expose the top of the implant.
This part of the process includes local anesthesia and involves little discomfort. Once the abutment is in place, the gum will heal around it, creating a natural seal.
Placing The Crown or Restoration
The last step is putting the crown or bridge on the abutment. The crown is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your other teeth, so it blends in naturally. If you are getting a denture, it will be attached to multiple implants.
Dr. Canatella will make sure the crown fits well and adjust it if needed for a comfortable bite. The crown is attached to the abutment with either dental cement or a small screw, depending on the type of implant system used. Once the crown is in place, it works just like a natural tooth, letting you chew, talk, and smile with confidence.
Why Choose Implant Dentistry at Canatella Dental?
At Canatella Dental, Dr. Canatella uses the latest tools and methods to give you the best possible care. Choosing dental implants with us offers many benefits. Dr. Canatella has years of experience in implant treatments, ensuring patients get the highest level of care and long-lasting results.
Our office in New Orleans uses modern equipment like digital scans and 3D imaging to plan and place implants with precision and comfort. This technology helps create a smooth and accurate treatment plan.
Dr. Canatella offers personalized care, making sure each patient gets the attention they need at every step. From your first visit to the final placement of your new tooth, you’ll have support and guidance throughout the entire process.
Caring for Your Implants
After getting dental implants, it’s important to take care of them so they last a long time. Dr. Canatella offers the dental services you need to keep your smile healthy for life. Regular checkups and proper care are key to keeping your implants in great shape.
Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush and use non-abrasive toothpaste to protect the implant and the gum tissue around it. Don’t forget to floss daily, too.
It’s also important to keep up with regular dental visits for cleanings and exams. These visits help the dentist spot any potential issues early and ensure that your implants stay in good condition. With proper care, your dental implants can last for many years.