The American Academy of Implant Dentistry says that three million people in the United States have dental implants. Why are these artificial teeth so popular and successful? Dr. Stephen Solomon and Dr. Jonathan Solomon, your dentists in Putnam, CT, place dental implants to close smile gaps caused by oral injury, decay, abscess, gum disease, and more. Read about implants here and about how you could qualify for these state-of-the-art tooth replacements.

What exactly is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a completely artificial tooth. Its structure includes a titanium screw (root) placed into the jaw bone, a metal alloy abutment or extension post, and a custom-crafted porcelain crown. Because dental implants are located in solid bone, they actually stimulate its growth. This process is known as osseointegration, and it creates an incredibly solid foundation for the post and crown.

In addition, your dentist uses dental implants to support fixed, multi-tooth bridges and partial/full dentures. All of these implant-retained prosthetics reinforce jawbone size and density, avoiding the facial changes and oral function problems which accompany tooth loss.

The treatment in Putnam

It starts with a complete oral examination, including digital X-rays and a three-dimensional CAT scan. With this information, Dr. Solomon understands how much jaw bone you have and if it's sufficient for implant placement. If the bone is thin, there are augmentation treatments which can build it up.

With the establishment of a good foundation, the dentist opens the gums in the area of the empty tooth socket. Using a high-speed drill, he makes a small pilot hole in the bone and inserts the implant screw. A few sutures close the site, and you'll return home to heal.

Healing takes time, but the wait is worth it. Over many weeks, the jaw bone adheres to the titanium implant through something called osseointegration. Jawbone strength and size actually improve because of the implant.

When you return to Dr. Solomon's office, he'll re-open the implant site and bond on the abutment, or extension post, and a lifelike crown made of superior-quality porcelain. Then, you'll begin enjoying the benefits of this exceptional tooth replacement.

Take care of it

Your dental implant needs no special care. However, you must continue to brush and floss diligently to avoid plaque and tartar accumulation at the gum line. Also, see Dr. Solomon and his team for a hygienic cleaning and check-up every six months. Your hygienist may suggest special ways to keep your implant clean.

Finally, if you smoke or chew tobacco, consider starting a smoking cessation program through your primary care physician. Tobacco in all forms contains toxins which harm the gums and bone around dental implants. An infection known as peri-implantitis resembles advanced periodontal disease, and it could cause implant failure and necessitate removal.

Arrange your consultation

At Stephen Solomon, DMD & Associates in Putnam, CT, you'll learn all about dental implants and their many applications. Please contact the office today for a personal consultation: (860) 928-6533.