The invention of dental implants has changed life for the better for millions of people in the U.S. Dental implants revolutionized the dental industry as the only dental restoration that not only replaces the missing visible part of the tooth (crown) but also the missing tooth root. As such, dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth all the while preserving the jaw bone. Dental implants can replace one missing tooth, multiple missing teeth in a row, and even an entire arch of teeth. 

Dental Implants for Individual Missing Teeth

To replace a single tooth, one implant (post or screw) made of a biocompatible material such as titanium or zirconia is surgically implanted in the jaw. Over a period of months, the jawbone and the soft tissues begin to fuse with the implanted screw in a process called osseointegration. 

Once the implant is fully fused, the implant is fitted with a permanent dental crown that matches the natural teeth in size, shape, and color.  

Dental Implants For Multiple Missing Teeth in a Row

For people with two or more consecutive missing teeth, an implant-supported bridge may be the perfect solution. An implant-supported bridge requires two dental implants. The bridge may replace up to four teeth. In some cases, the dental implant may be able to support even longer bridges.

Dental Implants to Replace Upper or Lower Arch

Dental implants can be strategically placed to restore an entire upper or lower arch of teeth. In this case, as few as four strategically placed dental implants will support either removable “snap-on” dentures or permanent fixed dentures.  

Dental Implants Are the Best Choice to Replace Missing Teeth

Dental implants replace a missing tooth root with a surgically implanted post or screw. The implanted post or screw prevents the jawbone from deteriorating, and can even promote the growth of new bone. This preservation of jaw bone is vital to maintaining your facial structure and therefore, appearance.

Dental implants are also the most long-lasting dental restoration. Dental implants can be expected to last at least 20 years. Those who practice excellent oral hygiene, and see their dentist regularly often find they last even longer.

The natural appearance and function of dental implants are yet another reason they are deemed the gold standard for tooth replacement. Incredibly strong and secure, implants return your bite force to full strength.

Learn More About Your Options for Replacing Missing Teeth in  Merrick, NY

Elite Family Dental provides comprehensive solutions for missing teeth. Dental implants are placed by our dentists using guided placement software to ensure precision in placement. In addition to dental implants, we offer dental bridges and dentures (prosthodontics) to replace missing teeth. To book a consultation, call 516-608-0001 or schedule online. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the recovery period from dental implant surgery?

Everyone recovers at their own pace. Patients are responsible for ensuring they follow all post-surgical instructions and notify their dentist of any problems.  Most people recover from the surgery within two weeks. However, a full fusion of the implant with the bone and tissues may take several months. 

Do you accept CareCredit for dental implants?

Yes. Elite Family Dental Care accepts all major credit cards and CareCredit for dental implants and other restorative treatments. 

Dental implants are unmatched by other restorative dental treatments when it comes to filling gaps in your smile caused by missing teeth. As the only surgically implanted restorative dental treatment, dental implants are superior to both bridges and dentures because they replace both the crown (visible part of the tooth) and the tooth root (in the bone). With good oral hygiene habits and regular dental visits, dental implants should last at least a lifetime.  

Can Dental Implants Last a Lifetime?

Not only can dental implants last for a lifetime, they often do. The implanted cylinders fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. During osseointegration, the bone and the soft tissues grow up and around the implant, just like with natural tooth roots. The result is a secure anchor for the dental post and crown to attach to, again, just like natural teeth attach to their roots.  

The implants are made of durable and biocompatible materials such as titanium and zinc, which do not degrade over time, thus extending the lifespan of the implants.

However, patients are ultimately responsible for extending the longevity of dental implants. Between each dental visit, it is crucial to brush twice daily and floss daily, treating your implants like natural teeth. At the first sign of gum disease, pain, infection, or other problems, it is important to see your dentist. 

With excellent oral hygiene and lasting oral health, your dental implants may never need to be replaced.  

Dental Implants Can Improve Oral Health

Dental implants can help improve your overall oral health. The reasons? Dental implants offer benefits such as:

• Preventing further loss of jawbone
• Preventing teeth adjacent to a gap from drifting into the empty space 
• Preventing additional tooth loss by strengthening the jawbone
• Protecting empty pockets from debris accumulation and subsequent infections

Moreover, dental implants can help improve mental and emotional well-being, as missing teeth are known to cause problems with self-esteem and self-confidence. Tooth loss may indirectly contribute to avoiding social gatherings and even job opportunities, thus resulting in a reduced quality of life. 

If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants should be a restorative dental treatment option you consider. During your initial consultation, your dentist will conduct a full oral exam, including imaging tests to confirm good oral health and sufficient jawbone to support dental implants.  If you decide to move forward with dental implants, you’ll have a series of appointments, that include placing the implant and following up with your recovery process. If you have insufficient bone height and density, treatments such as bone grafting may first be necessary.

Book a Consultation for Dental Implants in Merrick, NY

Dental implants are an advanced restorative dental treatment that gives you your smile and life back. Dental implants allow you to enjoy your favorite foods again, smile broadly at loved ones, and support good oral health. To book a dental implant consultation in Merrick, NY contact Elite Family Dental Care today at 516-608-0001. Elite Family Dental Care is a Google 5.0-star rated all-age dental practice that provides comprehensive restorative, cosmetic, endodontic, and periodontal care for all ages.