About Dental Implants - Good Samaritan Medical Center

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About Dental Implants - Good Samaritan Medical Center
Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved.
What are Dental Implants?
The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts which are inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jaw bone. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implant which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.
Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.
The Surgical Procedure
For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves one surgical procedure. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For 6-12 weeks following surgery, the implants bond with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your dentist is forming new replacement teeth.
The entire procedure usually takes two to six months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.
Making the Care You Need More Convenient
Today, most dental implant procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis, so you can return to the comfort of your own home the same day. Our surgical suites are conveniently located in the Good Samaritan Outpatient Surgery Center. In the sterile operating room environment, your care includes anesthesia services provided by a board-certified anesthesiologist.
In some cases, treatment may require hospitalization. However, this will usually be only an overnight stay. Special hospital rooms are available in these instances at Good Samaritan Medical Center.
After: Placement of a single small dental implant provides support for permanent tooth replacement without involving adhacent healthy teeth seen five years after final crown was placed.