Have you just knocked out a permanent tooth? Do you have extracted teeth due to tooth decay? Restore your smile with dental implants. Dental implants are high-quality dental restorations that can replace one or more permanent missing teeth.
A single implant component comprises a small titanium prosthesis, attaching abutment, and a dental crown. Dental implants can anchor a dental bridge or denture for a permanent and secure restoration. Dr. Rita Tempel restores implants for an aesthetically pleasing result that is stable, comfortable, and lasting.
Dental Implant Treatment in Gettysburg, PA
Replacing a missing tooth promptly is the key to stabilizing your dental health and avoiding developing additional problems. Dr. Tempel can develop a treatment plan using a dental implant to replace a missing tooth or for a tooth extraction to be completed in a timely manner.
To begin treatment, we take dental impressions of their smiles. Then, we send these impressions to a dental lab to create the implant prosthetic. Once patients are prepared for implant treatment, we will refer them to a local oral surgeon. The surgeon places the implants which fuse with the jawbone during osseointegration. We will place the dental crown, bridge, or denture once the implants heal.
Dental Implant FAQs
Learn more about treatment with dental implants with answers to these popular questions:
What are the benefits of dental implants?
There are many advantages to implants and implant-secured restorations. Dental implants:
- Improve bite function
- Prevent gum recession and bone loss
- Can look and feel natural
Dental implants support the smile’s health, appearance, and overall function. When placing an implant for a single missing tooth, there is no impact on adjacent healthy teeth as with the placement of a bridge. If you have an old or removable restoration, call our office, and we can plan your implant treatment.
Do I need to replace all of my missing teeth with dental implants?
When it comes to implant restorations, every patient has different. Some patients only need one or two implants to replace their missing teeth. Other patients may have full rows of lost teeth. We offer All-On-Four, or full arch restorations if patients have upper or lower arches of missing teeth. Full arch restorations use four to six dental implants to secure a denture. If you have missing teeth and want an implant restoration, we will help you find the right option to fit your specific needs.
How soon can you get an implant after a tooth extraction?
Depending on the health of the gums and bone, sometimes an implant can be placed on the same day as the extraction; sometimes, the bone and gums need to heal before an implant is placed. Dr. Tempel will recommend how to proceed based on your oral health for the most successful outcome.
What is the recovery process like after getting dental implants?
Everyone will recover from a surgical procedure differently. After getting dental implants, you should expect discomfort and swelling for the first few days. Medications and ice packs will help alleviate the pain. You will need to follow a soft food diet, maintain good oral hygiene, and avoid strenuous activities during the initial healing period. After healing from surgery, maintain oral hygiene for several months until the implant fully integrates with the jawbone. At that point, we can attach the final dental prosthetic.
Are dental implants safe?
Yes, dental implants are very safe and have a high success rate. They are a well-established and reliable solution for replacing missing teeth. However, individual health factors and proper oral care are vital to their success. Every patient must consult Dr. Tempel to see if they qualify for teeth implants. She will make sure you are healthy enough to receive them and ensure your treatment is safe and effective.
How long does the dental implant process take?
The dental implant process can vary depending on individual factors. On average, it takes several months to complete. The process includes planning, a surgical procedure, healing and integration of the implant with the jawbone, abutment placement, and placement of the final prosthetic. In some cases, patients may require a bone graft or teeth extractions. These extra procedures can prolong treatment time. However, it is vital for a successful and lasting result. After your consultation, Dr. Tempel can give you an accurate treatment timeline, whether it is a few months or up to a year.
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Good candidates for dental implants typically have good oral health, ample jawbone density, and the drive to maintain good oral hygiene for a lifetime. Patients with missing teeth or those facing tooth extraction may be good candidates. Dr. Tempel will determine if you are eligible based on your overall health, oral health, and specific dental conditions.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. They are designed to be a long-term solution for missing teeth, offering stability, functionality, and durability comparable to natural teeth. Regular dental check-ups and oral hygiene practices can help prolong the lifespan of dental implants.
Restore Missing Teeth with Dental Implants in Gettysburg, PA
Do you want to replace your lost permanent teeth? Contact our office for dental implant treatment today. Request a dental appointment on our website. You may also call Dr. Tempel at (717) 853-1552.