Dental Implants - NC

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium or other metal alloys. These implants are surgically inserted into the supportive jawbone of the patient. Replacement teeth are then anchored onto the implant, via a crown, bridge, partial, or dentures. Dentures placed this way may be removable or non-removable, depending on the individual patient. Dental Implants are extremely strong and durable, and are also completely unaffected by normal tooth decay and diseases.

Implants are created using biocompatible metal alloys, meaning your jawbone and facial structures will accept the implant as a natural part of the body. Over time, bone and gum tissue till grow around the implant and fill in empty areas, creating a strong and natural tooth foundation.

Dental Implants are available in traditional as well as Mini Implant sizes. Your Macdonald & Whaley, DDS dental care professional will explain which option may be best for your personal needs.

There are three types of commonly used dental implants:

» Endosseous Implants - This is the most common and most often used dental implant. An Endosseous implant requires sufficient alveolar bone for ideal placement and restorability. The jawbone is prepared atraumatically, using tiny drills and the implant is screwed securely into place. » Transosseous Implants - The Transosseous implant is not as common today as it once was, because this procedure requires an operating room and general anesthesia. It is used exclusively on toothless patients who are unable to otherwise retain a lower denture. This implant is inserted from underneath the lower jawbone through two holes drilled completely through the bone. The flat plate at the bottom is then screwed to the underside of the chinbone. Two long pins on either side stick up through the lower gums, allowing a number of different types of attachments to be placed on these pins in order to attach the lower denture. This is a very invasive procedure, which is not preferred by most dentists or patients. » Subperiosteal Implants - These dental implants are very stable due to the fact that they wrap around the lateral borders of the lower jawbone and are held securely in place by the attachments within the gum tissue. Subperiosteal Implants are still used today in certain patient circumstances.

Dental implants are completely successful in over 98% of all patients, provided proper long-term maintenance and care. Please complete an information submission form on this page to begin your process of bringing that beautiful smile back to your face.