Pembroke Pines, FL dentist answers all your FAQs about the dental implant process
Today’s dental professionals can rebuild teeth in much the same way that natural teeth are designed – from the root upward! This “gold standard” alternative to conventional tooth replacement options, such as bridges and removable dentures, relies on components known as “dental implants.” Dr. Milton Ruiz and the rest of the team at Pines Dental Associates in Pembroke Pines, FL are happy to answer all your dental implant FAQs.
So, what is a dental implant exactly?
A dental implant is a cylinder made from a biocompatible material, such as titanium alloys or dental ceramics like Zirconia. The implant is designed to function like a tooth root. It supports the replacement tooth, be it a crown, bridge, or denture.
What steps are involved with replacing a tooth with a dental implant?
If we determine that you are a good candidate for dental implants, Dr. Ruiz will work with one of the area’s top oral surgeons to expertly plan your treatment. The implant must be precisely positioned and placed in the jaw. The implant material naturally and safely joins to the surrounding bone. The process of osseointegration, as it is called, can be completed in around four months. An abutment or connector piece is then placed on top of the implant. The restoration or porcelain crown is connected to the abutment and provides the “finishing touch” – the lovely tooth that fills your gap!
Does it hurt?
Implant placement is a straightforward, in-office procedure. We use local anesthetic to precisely numb the treatment site. So, you will not feel anything during the procedure. If you have apprehension about any treatments at our office, we would be more than happy to discuss safe options to help you relax in the treatment chair.
What if I am missing a lot of teeth?
No worries! We can use implants to support a single tooth, a few teeth, several teeth, or a mouthful of teeth; for instance, lifelike dentures may be connected to implants via specialized clasps that allow the denture to snap into place. As with all restoration options, implants provide a strong foundation for the replacement tooth (or teeth). Denture-wearers appreciate that their implant-supported teeth are stabilized in their mouth, and do not require special products like adhesives to hold them in place.
Am I a candidate?
Many patients are great candidates for dental implants! In fact, due to modern techniques and implant products, even those individuals who have suffered from bone loss can still have success with implants. We may determine that grafting is necessary to build up the bone that has retreated. In this manner, your jaw can best support the implant. Also, implants are placed in such a way that a minimal number may be used to support a maximum number of teeth in the upper or lower jaw or arch.
Speaking of bone loss, patients appreciate that dental implants keep the supportive bony tissue strong. In turn, they retain youthful facial shape and appearance, and maintain functional chewing and speech. Patients also appreciate that these teeth can last a lifetime with good oral care and visits to our office every six months for professional cleanings and exams. To discover more benefits of this process, schedule an appointment at our office. We are located conveniently off 99th or 101st Avenue, on North Palm Avenue, and we are proud, bilingual English/Spanish speakers.
Dr. Milton Ruiz
Connect on LinkedIn
A respected general dentist with over 25 years of experience, Dr. Milton Ruiz earned his dental degree from Tufts Dental School in Boston. He has completed over 500 hours of continuing education to stay at the forefront of modern dentistry and is highly skilled in various areas, including cosmetic dentistry, root canals, sleep apnea treatments, orthodontics, and restorative care. Certified in Invisalign and experienced in oral conscious sedation, he ensures a broad spectrum of patient care with a focus on comfort and modern techniques.
