Extensive tooth loss compromises oral functions, detracts from the beauty of the smile, and increases the risk of further dental complications. Individuals who have suffered from serious tooth loss may be ideal candidates for full mouth reconstruction with dental implants, as offered by Dr. Frank Avason III at our Denver, NC dental practice. Dental implants anchor and support up to an entire arch of dental restorations to completely rebuild a smile damaged by tooth loss.
The Dental Implant Procedure
Dental implant treatment requires multiple procedures, each of which involves its own recovery time. The first part of treatment involves the placement of the dental implants, which are actually small titanium screws. Implants are surgically placed through the gum line, and are implanted into the jawbone where they can fuse with the patient’s natural tissues as they heal.
The number of implants that are placed will vary based on how many teeth have been lost. When a single tooth is being replaced, the restoration will be supported by a single dental implant. A set of four missing teeth can typically be supported by two dental implants. To secure a full arch of permanent dentures, our Denver patients may require anywhere between four and eight dental implants.
After dental implants have been placed, we allow three to six months for osseointegration to occur. During this process, tissues heal around the implants so that they become a secure part of the jaw. When osseointegration is complete, we will proceed with treatment.
The second stage of treatment involves the placement of metal abutments, which are small metal posts. An incision will be made in the gums so that abutments can be attached to the top of the dental implants. A small portion of the abutments will protrude from the gum line, where they will be used to secure dental restorations. Before dental restorations can be attached, the gums need to heal.
Within four to six weeks of placing abutments, the gums should be healed and ready for dental restorations. The restorations will be bonded to abutments with a strong dental compound. Once they have been secured, the dental restorations should feel, look, and function just like the natural teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Implants can replace either a single tooth, a small set of teeth, or an entire arch of teeth to completely restore oral functions and enhance the appearance of the smile. Dental implants offer numerous benefits:
- Dental implants are more durable and secure than any other treatment for missing teeth
- Dental implants will never shift or slip out of place
- Dental implant-supported restorations are easy to clean
- Dental implants function like the natural teeth
- Dental implants stimulate the jaw to prevent bone loss
Additional Treatment Options
For many patients, dental implants alone can fully reconstruct the smile. However, tooth loss does increase the risk of other oral complications, so some of our Denver patients require additional treatment to completely restore oral health. If necessary, Dr. Avason can complete full mouth reconstruction by including treatments such as:
Contact Us
If the health or beauty of your smile has been compromised by tooth loss or other dental complications, the treatments offered by our doctors, Dr. Frank Avason, Dr. Alyssa Wolff, and Dr. Mason Pirtle, can help. To learn more about full mouth reconstruction, send us a message at our office in Denver, NC at your earliest convenience, or call (704) 820-9797 to schedule an appointment.
