/ Services / Dental Implants
Missing teeth affect a patient’s bite, speech, food choices, and overall quality of life, and replacing them is about more than simply overcoming the embarrassment of a gapped smile.
Fortunately, most cases of tooth loss aren’t emergencies, and you can take time to research various teeth-replacement options before deciding on the right one.
Depending on the number of teeth lost, you may require a single dental crown, a bridge, a partial denture, or a complete denture, which we recommend supporting on one or more prosthetic tooth roots. With dental implants we can support your appropriate dental prosthesis on a foundation like healthy tooth roots for improved chewing efficiency and stability.
At Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Associates, our expert oral surgeons specialize in providing top-tier dental implant services in Montgomery, Prattville, Troy, and surrounding areas. With cutting-edge technology and a commitment to patient satisfaction, we deliver unparalleled results that restore your smile and confidence.
Self-confidence isn’t the only casualty of missing teeth. The force from biting and chewing helps facilitate healthy blood flow and enables an adequate supply of nutrients to the jawbone.
Following tooth loss, the jawbone that once surrounded the teeth’s roots becomes resorbed, or atrophied, and its nutrients are dispersed to other areas of the body. Traditional dental prosthetics are highly effective at restoring the ability to bite, chew, speak, and smile, but only dental implants can halt jawbone resorption by replacing the bite stimulation of healthy tooth roots.
Patients who’ve worn conventional dentures for a while may be familiar with denture slippage and the need for routine readjustments. As dental ridges shrink due to jawbone resorption, dentures no longer fit as snugly as they were originally designed.
Securing a denture to a series of dental implants eliminates denture slippage on two fronts: by providing a more secure foundation than dental adhesives, and by halting jawbone resorption and the shrinking of your dental ridge.
Dental implants guard against a serious health concern related to missing teeth: bone loss. In the absence of tooth roots, the body will begin to resorb bone cells from the jaw, resulting in atrophy, or shrinkage. However, dental implants can effectively halt this process, making them an incredible investment in your long-term oral health.
Dental implants are not right for everyone. In addition to being in good general and oral health, patients interested in receiving traditional implants must have enough strong, healthy jawbone to support the implant post. During a thorough examination, x-rays will be used to help determine your candidacy. For patients who qualify, our skilled surgeons may first perform a bone grafting procedure to strengthen and build up the jaw.
Patients who do not meet the criteria for traditional implant candidacy are often happy to learn that they can receive mini implants.
Mini dental implants were developed as an effective restorative solution. Mini implants utilize smaller posts than traditional types, so they are more appropriate for patients with limited jawbone density. We can review your candidacy for mini implants during a personal consultation.
In some cases, patients may qualify for immediate placement of dental implants (also called immediate loading). The dental crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implants while implant placement, significantly reducing the total treatment time. Though faster and more convenient, immediate implant loading has significant limitations. After a thorough and comprehensive examination, we can determine if you’re an ideal candidate for immediate loading, or proceed with traditional, two-phase dental implant placement.
Though most adults who’ve suffered tooth loss are viable candidates for dental implants, an initial consultation is required to determine the state of a patient’s oral health before dental implant placement is approved. An examination will determine if gum disease or another oral infection is present, or if the jawbone is insufficient to sustain the implant(s).
Patients with an existing dental disease will need successful treatment to ensure that the infection doesn’t compromise the success of dental implants. A bone graft, such as a sinus lift or ridge augmentation, can fortify a weak jawbone by increasing its height and/or width for adequate implant support.
Once remaining teeth and gums are free of disease and the jawbone is deemed strong enough, dental implant surgery can commence. The first stage of implant placement involves surgically inserting the dental implants into the jawbone, underneath the gum line.
As oral surgeons, our training sets us apart from local dentist’s office—unlike dentists, we offer general anesthesia and IV sedation to help you sleep through the surgical procedure. After the surgery, the jawbone will heal in 4-6 months, and then the final restoration will be attached to the dental implants.
The second stage of dental implant surgery is attaching replacement teeth to the prosthetic tooth roots. The number of implants placed depends on the number of teeth lost and the type of dental prosthesis they’ll support. One, two, or several dental implants can support a dental crown (single lost tooth), a bridge (several lost teeth), or a complete denture (total tooth loss on one or both dental ridges).
Dental prostheses are crafted from lifelike porcelain in a trusted dental lab, and are designed to precisely mimic the size, shape, color, and light-reflection properties of natural teeth. In most cases, our patients are referred to us by their dentists, and can return to the dentist’s office to have their dental prosthesis placed once the jawbone heals. In some cases, however, we can attach the final restoration in our office.
With decades of combined experience, our surgeons are recognized as leaders in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Cutting-Edge Technology: We invest in the latest advancements in dental technology to ensure precise diagnoses and optimal treatment outcomes.
Patients trust us for our reliability and commitment to delivering exceptional results, backed by a track record of successful procedures. Patient-Centered Care: We prioritize patient satisfaction and strive to create a comfortable and positive experience for every individual who walks through our doors.
During your initial consultation, our team provides transparent treatment plans and cost estimates tailored to your unique case.
We understand that cost can be a concern, so our expert staff collaborates with you to explore financing options that fit your budget.
While full arch reconstruction offers numerous benefits, we also offer implant-supported overdentures as a cost-effective alternative. These provide many advantages at a more accessible price point.
Our surgeons will discuss the best options for your situation during your consultation at Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Associates, ensuring you receive the most suitable treatment for your needs and budget.
Dr. Richard A. Kean, Dr. J. Jason Parker, Dr. Matthew W. Johnson, and Dr. Taylor J. Jung bring extensive experience and expertise to every procedure. State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our modern clinics in Montgomery, Prattville, and Troy are equipped with advanced technology for precise and effective dental implant treatments.
Ready to achieve your dream smile? Contact Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Associates today to schedule your consultation.
