Dental implants offer a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution for those with missing teeth. Dental implants are designed to replace the lost tooth in its entirety, including the tooth root beneath the gums. With numerous benefits and various types available, they can significantly enhance your quality of life. If you’re considering dental implants, consult with Dr. Campbell or Dr. Rafetto to explore your most suitable treatment options.
Dental Implants in Wilmington, DE
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible materials, usually titanium. They are surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth, or crowns. Unlike dentures or bridges, which rest on the gums, implants integrate with the jawbone, providing a permanent solution to tooth loss. They restore natural function and preserve the structure of your lower chin and jaw, which can change after tooth loss due to lost bone.
The process typically involves several steps:
- Consultation: Dr. Campbell or Dr. Rafetto will evaluate your oral health and determine if you’re a suitable candidate for implants.
- Surgical Placement: The implant is surgically placed in the jawbone.
- Osseointegration: Over the next few months, the bone heals around the implant, anchoring it securely.
- Abutment Placement: Once healed, an abutment (connector) is attached to the implant.
- Crown Placement: Finally, a custom-made crown, bridge, or hybrid denture is attached to the abutment, completing your new smile.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer patients key benefits for oral health and lifestyle. Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, enhancing your smile and confidence. Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss that can occur with missing teeth. They restore your natural ability to bite and chew food with confidence. Stable and permanent, they also allow for normal speech. Patients can enjoy their best quality of life without fearing a slipping denture or the embarrassment of unintelligible speech.
Dental implants function like natural teeth. They are lasting and durable. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, often making them a cost-effective option in the long run. When used in lieu of a dental bridge, dental implants preserve the integrity of adjacent healthy teeth, which are typically reduced to accommodate a dental crown.
Types of Dental Implants
We place different types of dental implants to meet the varying needs of our patients. The structure of each different type of implant is designed to support the condition of a patient’s jaw bone and their unique placement needs. The main types of implants include:
- Endosteal Implants: The most common type, endosteal implants are surgically placed directly into the jawbone. They typically take the form of screws, cylinders, or blades.
- Subperiosteal Implants: These are placed under the gum but above the jawbone. They are often used for patients who have a shallow jawbone and cannot undergo a bone augmentation procedure.
- Zygomatic Implants: This type is anchored in the cheekbone (zygoma) rather than the jawbone, used in complex cases where there is significant jawbone loss.
- Mini Implants: Smaller in diameter than traditional implants, mini implants can be used in narrower areas of the jaw and require less invasive surgery.
Dental Implant FAQs
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for dental implants?
Good candidates for dental implants generally have sufficient jawbone density to support the implant, healthy gums, and good overall health. During your consultation at our Wilmington office, Dr. Campbell or Dr. Rafetto will conduct a thorough examination including digital imaging to assess your bone structure.
Even if you’ve experienced bone loss, procedures like bone grafting may make you eligible for implants. Certain conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or heavy smoking may require special consideration, which we’ll discuss during your personalized treatment planning.
What’s the success rate of dental implants?
Dental implants have an impressive success rate of 95-98% when placed by experienced professionals like our team. With proper care including good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, implants can last a lifetime. The crown portion may need replacement after 15-20 years because of normal wear, but the titanium implant itself typically remains stable indefinitely.
Proper home care and avoiding habits like teeth grinding significantly contribute to long-term success. We provide all our implant patients with detailed maintenance instructions to maximize longevity.
Is the implant procedure painful, and what’s the recovery like?
Most patients report the implant procedure involves less discomfort than expected thanks to modern anesthesia and sedation options. You may experience some swelling, bruising, or mild discomfort for a few days after surgery, which can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter medication.
The initial healing phase typically takes 7-10 days, during which we recommend soft foods and gentle cleaning. The complete osseointegration process takes 3-6 months, but you’ll be able to resume normal activities within a day or two after the procedure. We use advanced techniques to minimize discomfort at every stage.
How do dental implants compare to bridges?
While implants have a higher initial cost than bridges, they often prove more cost-effective long-term. Bridges typically last 7-15 years before needing replacement, while implants can last decades. Unlike bridges that require altering adjacent healthy teeth, implants preserve your natural tooth structure.
Implants also prevent bone loss and don’t decay like natural teeth under bridges. We offer flexible financing options and will help you evaluate all factors to make the best choice for your oral health and budget.
Can I get implants if I’ve been missing teeth for many years?
Yes, even patients who lost teeth years ago can often receive implants. While prolonged tooth loss can lead to bone deterioration, we have solutions like bone grafting or zygomatic implants that can overcome this challenge. During your consultation, we’ll take 3D scans to assess your bone quality and recommend the most appropriate implant type or preparatory procedures. Age alone isn’t a deterrent – we’ve successfully placed implants in patients well into their 80s and 90s with good overall health.
How do I care for my dental implants after the procedure?
Caring for implants is similar to caring for natural teeth but with some special considerations. You’ll need to brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use low-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the implant surface. Flossing daily with implant-specific floss or interdental brushes is crucial to prevent gum disease around the implant.
We recommend antimicrobial mouth rinses during the healing phase and regular professional cleanings every 6 months. Avoid chewing hard items like ice or hard candy that could damage the crown. With proper care, your implants can remain trouble-free for decades.
To learn more about dental implants, see:
Are you ready to replace your lost teeth in Wilmington? Call Oral Facial Surgery in Delaware at 302-335-6123 or request an appointment online.