Dental implants replace missing tooth roots and form a stable foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth. They help preserve bone by stabilizing natural bone and prevent future bone loss. Dental implants also stabilize loose or uncomfortable dentures and eliminate the need for a removable partial.

At Parkwood Dental, we’ve compiled the top 6 questions our patients ask Dr. Hernandez about dental implants. Here’s what you need to know about dental implants to replace a missing tooth and dental implants to stabilize a denture.

1. What are the benefits of having a dental implant?

Dental implants replace one or more teeth without affecting bordering teeth and help maintain anatomy. If you have missing teeth, the bone begins to shrink over time. Unhealthy bone loss can make your jaw line recede and change your facial structure, and cause teeth to move resulting in crooked teeth. Dental implants can help prevent deterioration of the jawbone so your face retains its natural shape. Other benefits include keeping your healthy teeth (when you lose a tooth, you are at risk of loosing the 5 that surround it), security (securely anchored teeth, bridges and implants do not move, slip) and restore confidence (people tend to smile more when they have all their teeth!)

Implant-Supported replacement teeth look, feel & function like natural teeth- so we think they are great!

2. What are the negative consequences of loosing a tooth? (or getting one extracted?)

When a person looses a tooth, the other teeth surrounding this area are forced to overcompensate and work much harder. When you loose a tooth, you are at greater risk of loosing teeth on either side and the opposing ones that help you chew. Little by little, these remaining teeth become loose and over time you will lose them, much like a domino effect.

3. What is involved in the implant procedure?

The dental implant process involves several steps but can take as little as 1 day. The typical process will include 1) a pre-treatment consultation (careful evaluation of your dental and medical history to determine if you are a good candidate and will include a specialized CAT Scan), 2) implant placement and prosthetic attachment & loading (an abutment is inserted inside the implant) and 3) restoration (dental crown or bridge) is created to fit on the abutment. We then provide you with at-home tools and tips to keep the implant clean and healthy.

4. How Long Do Implants Last?

Modern dental implants have been maintained in individual cases for more than twenty years. The life of the implant varies with factors of patient health (diabetes, HIV, metabolic bone disease), patient habits (smoking, oral hygiene) and structural overload. While it is impossible to predict exactly how long an implant will last, it is not uncommon to have success rates over 95% in the field of dental implants. Implants never decay and are much stronger than the natural roots of teeth.

5. Who is an Ideal Candidates for Implants?

While we offer free dental implant consultation with Dr. Oscar Hernandez, here are some guidelines on ideal candidates for implants:

• Have healthy teeth and gums
• Have sufficient bone density to support the dental implant
• Are committed to good oral hygiene (both at home and regular visits to your dentist)
• Do not suffer from uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders which may impact your ability to heal
• Are non-smokers or are willing to stop smoking during the dental implant process

6. Will an implant help if I already have a denture?

Yes! In addition to single tooth implants, Parkwood Dental offers dental implants for denture stabilization or bridges. Dental implants support a bridge, eliminating the need for a removable partial denture and provide support for a denture, making it more secure and comfortable.

Implant-supported dentures are one of Dr. Hernandez’s favorite procedures as he claims these are his happiest patients. Securely anchored dentures do not slip or move. Adding implants eliminates some of the key problems of dentures, including poor fit, gum irritation and pain from exposed nerves. The result is superior comfort, reliability, and freedom from embarrassment. These patients can now eat uninhibited, have conversations comfortably, and smile frequently.

To see if you are a candidate for dental implants, call or text us at 941-254-2595. We offer free dental implant consultation with Dr. Oscar Hernandez in our Bradenton offices serving Bradenton, Parrish and Lakewood Ranch, FL.

You’ve looked in the mirror and noticed that some teeth are missing and some are broken. If you see any issues with your teeth that can’t be fixed with a simple filling or by other dental means, then consider the unexpected benefits that dental implants offer. Although this is a multi-step process, you’ll have a beautiful smile and teeth that function like your natural ones in a short time.

After the implant process, you’ll have a smile that you’ll want to show off to other people. You won’t have to worry about empty spaces in your mouth that might make it difficult to talk correctly or eat correctly. This is one of the primary benefits of dental implants that encourage many people to go ahead and take the next step in having the procedure completed.

Implants are reliable and durable. You would think that the implants are your natural teeth or stronger because of the metal posts that are used and because of the detailed work that takes place when the implants are placed in your mouth. A benefit of dental implants is that they won’t slip around in your mouth like dentures. You don’t have to worry about applying adhesive to them so they stay in place while you’re eating. Dental implants can last a lifetime with the proper care.

After not having the normal function of your teeth because they are broken or missing, you’ll enjoy being able to eat just about anything that you want once again. Your words won’t be slurred or difficult to understand when you talk because you’re going to have a full set of teeth instead of having one or more missing or broken. There isn’t a risk of the tooth breaking off and getting lodged in your throat somehow or causing other damage in your mouth once the implants are in place. Your jaw will be positively impacted as well after the procedure because the bone will be allowed to get healthy before the implant is placed. Your dentist will give you antibiotics and other medications that can help with getting rid of any infection that is in your mouth, strengthening your jaw and your teeth as well. Dental implants require the same amount of care as your natural teeth with few other details that you need to provide.

To learn more about dental implants and the benefits that they offer, we encourage you to reach out and make an appointment with Parkwood Dental! At our convenient location in Bradenton, FL, our caring and dedicated team of professionals will be pleased to explain this option in greater detail and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to set up your consultation – we look forward to speaking with you!

Everyone loves to see a great smile. When your teeth don’t look the way they used to, it can be embarrassing. You can remedy that problem and get a great looking smile with dental implants. They look like your natural teeth and will restore your confidence.

About Implants

An implant is a metal stem that is first secured into the jawbone. Once that has healed, a dental crown is put on top. The metal stem, which is made of titanium or a titanium alloy, is permanent. The crown matches the color of your other teeth so that it appears to be just like one of your own.

Different Types of Dental Implants

There are three types of dental implants available that dentists can use. The first type is called transosteal. It goes through the jawbone and the gums into your mouth. The second type is a subperiosteal implant. This one is a framework of metal, which sits on top of the jawbone but is under your gums.

The third type of implant is the endosseous implant, also called an endosteal implant. It is planted into your jawbone in the socket where the tooth was. It often has a screw that is screwed into the jawbone to secure it in place, and then a cap is placed on top.

How Implants Are Installed

The implant portion of your new tooth can be installed at the same time your teeth are pulled. The base is screwed into place (other types may also be used) in the jawbone, and then the gums are allowed to heal before the next step can take place.

It will take a few months for the jawbone to heal. During this time, the jawbone will grow around the implant, further securing it in place. The gums will also need to have healed. Once that has occurred, the cap will be secured on top of the implant.

The Best Candidates for Implants

The best way to find out if you are a good candidate for dental implants is to schedule a consultation with our dentist. In general, however, good candidates include patients who have one or more missing teeth and do not want dentures.

Advantages of Implants

The key advantage of implants is that they can be permanent. This replaces the worry of dentures that can slip when talking or eating. You can eat and talk with implants just as if they were your natural teeth. Implants can also be removable, too, but are just as secure when installed.

When you are ready to consider dental implants, you can visit Parkwood Dental in Bradenton. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment and learn more!

A dental implant is an artificial tooth that is installed in your jawbone to replace a missing tooth. Dental implants may also be used to hold dentures and partial dentures in place. There are several ways to fill the gaps in your mouth from missing teeth. A fixed bridge is one such way, but installing a fixed bridge requires altering the healthy teeth on either side. Dental implants are considered the least invasive and longest-lasting solution to fill gaps from missing teeth.

Some of the most common causes for replacing a tooth are fractures, gum disease, cavities, failed dental work, loose teeth, crooked teeth, swollen gums and teeth missing from birth. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, there are many good reasons to get dental implants, including:

• They are the closest to natural teeth. The implant looks, feels and functions like a natural tooth. It is stable and strong, stops jawbone deterioration and does not interfere with eating, speaking or smiling. They remove any embarrassment about your teeth Check Out Your URL.
• They are a long-term solution that may last up to 15 years for young people. For people 45 years or older, they may last a lifetime with proper placement, care and regular adjustment.
• They support your cheeks and lips so your natural face shape is retained.
• They are embedded in your jawbone and stimulate bone growth.
• You can eat and enjoy all of the foods you love because you can bite and chew naturally.
• They are more predictable than other repair methods with a long track record of successful outcomes.
• They need to be cleaned and cared-for just like natural teeth, but one advantage is they will never get a cavity.

There are usually three components of dental implants, including the post, abutment and restoration. The post is a screw-like titanium support that is embedded into the bone. This is the substitute for the tooth root. After a few months, the bone grows around the post, just as it does with a natural tooth root. After the implant is secure, an abutment is attached to the top. This holds the crown or restoration tooth. The crown is custom-made to match your natural teeth.

With digital imaging, installing dental implants is even easier. Anyone who needs a replacement tooth may be a good candidate for dental implants.

During a consultation with our specialist at Parkwood Dental, you can learn about the different implant options. You may need to replace one tooth that was knocked out in a car accident or a sporting event. Or you may want to make your dentures more secure so they do not make a clicking sound when you talk or chew. If you have a root canal that was unsuccessful, an implant may be your best solution for a replacement tooth.

The number one reason to get dental implants is because they are the closest solution to natural teeth. Whatever your reason, contact us today to schedule a dental appointment at one of our locations in East Bradenton or West Bradenton.