Dental Implants

What is a dental implant?

Dental implants are titanium posts that replace the roots of missing teeth. They adhere to your jaw and become the support for replacement teeth. In fact, they’re the only replacement option that preserves your bone and spurs bone growth.

Who’s a good candidate for an implant?

Any healthy adult can get an implant, regardless of whether you’ve lost a tooth because of an injury, infection, or decay. Dr. Bajwa and his team will review all your treatment options to help you make an informed decision.

Which steps are involved is having a dental implant?

Receiving an implant takes between three and nine months, but it’s well worth the time. After the initial consultation, Dr. Bajwa places the implant in the jawbone, where the tooth is missing. Local anesthesia is administered to minimize any discomfort.

Over the next several months, the implant and your jaw meld together, a process called osseointegration. Once this process is complete, Dr. Bajwa will place a device called an abutment in your mouth. The abutment becomes the platform for your new tooth.

After your mouth has healed, you’ll be ready for your replacement teeth. For a single tooth, this is usually a crown. If you’re replacing more than one tooth, you may need a bridge.

Will I have any restrictions while I’m getting my implant?

Dr. Bajwa may recommend a diet of soft foods and soup until the implant heals. But after the area heals, you’ll be able to resume your regular diet. There may be slight swelling or bruising, but nothing that can’t be taken care of with over-the-counter painkillers.

How do I take care of my implant?

You care for an implant just as you care for your natural teeth: Regular brushing and flossing, and periodic visits to the dentist for cleaning and checkups.