Dental Implants in Duluth
If you are missing one or more teeth, you’ll want to talk with Dr. Davis about replacements that are as natural as possible. If dentures don’t work for you, you may consider dental implants. Unlike dentures, which can be removed, Dr. Davis can make dental implants be permanently anchored into the jaw itself.
You are a good candidate for dental implants if you have jawbone ridges that are in good shape and healthy oral tissues. Dr. Davis works with one of the best oral surgeons in the state who places a titanium “tooth root” into the jaw bone. When this heals, the bone becomes fused to this titanium fixture. At that time, Dr. Davis does the quick and painless procedure to make the teeth that will be attached to the implant.
With dental implants, Dr. Clayton Davis will give you a perfect fit, and they will look and feel as good as (or better than!) your original teeth. For dental implants in the Duluth area, contact Dr. Clayton Davis today!
Dental Implants FAQ’s:
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a titanium metal replacement for a root of a tooth that is surgically implanted in the jawbone. As the body heals for approximately two to six months after the surgery, the bone around the implant fuses to the implant through a process called osseointegration. After the healing phase is complete, the implants are used to anchor crowns, bridges, or dentures. Dental implants are the most natural replacement for a missing tooth.
How many dental implants should be placed?
This is a question that should be determined during the treatment plan. Much depends on whether missing teeth are being replaced with crowns, bridges, or dentures.
Placing enough implants to restore teeth is vitally important to the long-term success of the restoration. Simply stated, the most costly mistake is to have an implant fail because not enough implants are placed to support the teeth. If the number of implants is limited due to financial constraints of the patient, then the implant treatment should be avoided or the type of restoration must be altered. We can usually find a feasible treatment plan that will not create financial hardship for the patient.
What is the dental implant process like?
We begin with a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical and dental history, and a full clinical examination of the entire mouth and missing tooth area. The clinical exam should also include specific X-rays.
After assessing the patient, a comprehensive treatment plan can be devised. From that point, implants are surgically placed in the jawbone under local anesthesia.
The length of the healing time is based on the quality and quantity of bone, as well as the type of implant placed. After adequate healing is allowed to occur, the implant can be used to support a crown, bridge, or denture.
Are there different types of dental implants?
Yes, several types are available. The American Dental Association considers both the endosteal and the subperiosteal implants to be acceptable. An important factor for selection is to determine whether your jawbone can adequately support the implant. Most dental implants placed today are endosteal root form fixtures (similar to a man-made tooth root).
Who should you see about getting dental implants?
When getting dental implants, you should select a dentist or dental team with in-depth knowledge and prior experience with all aspects of the treatment.
It is also important to know that implant treatment consists of two components: a surgical phase and a restorative phase.
Traditionally, a dental surgeon, like an oral surgeon or a periodontist, performs the surgical component. A restorative dentist, or prosthodontist and laboratory technician performs the restorative component.
Dr. Davis has been providing implant restorations for his patients since 1990. He works with one of the top surgeons in the metro area, and his lab technician is a leading authority on implant system components. We’ve got the team. We’ve got the know-how. Our friendly staff will be happy to reserve time for a consultation. Give us a call at (770) 476-9747.