Dental Implants in Mt. Vernon, NY

Dental implants are a common way to get new teeth. They look and work like natural teeth, and they offer several benefits. At Aurora Smiles in Mt. Vernon, NY, we make sure you get the best care and the best results. Let’s break down everything you need to know about dental implants in simple terms.

What Is the Dental Implant Procedure?

Here’s what happens with dental implants:

1. First Visit: our journey begins with a consultation at a dentist will discuss your dental health and goals. We may use X-rays or 3D images to check your jawbone and plan the implant placement.
2. Placing the Implant: Next, they place a tiny titanium post into your jawbone. This post acts like a new tooth root. This part of the process is done with local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain.
3. Healing Time: After the post is placed, you’ll need some time to heal. This healing period, called osseointegration, lets the post become a part of your jawbone. It usually takes about 3 to 6 months.
4. Adding the Abutment: Once your jawbone is healed, then  attach a small connector piece called an abutment to the post. This piece helps hold the new tooth in place.
5. Placing the Crown: Finally, they put a custom-made crown on top of the abutment. This crown looks like a natural tooth and completes your smile.

How can I tell if dental implants are right for me?

Dental implants might be a good choice if:

1. Bone Density: You need enough bone in your jaw to hold the implant. If your bone has weakened, you might need a bone graft first. We’ll check this during your consultation.
2. Overall Health: Being in good health helps with healing. Some health conditions or medications can affect implants, so we’ll review your health history.
3. Oral Health: Healthy gums are important. If you have gum disease, we need to treat that before placing implants. Taking care of your teeth helps keep implants healthy.
4. Lifestyle Factors: Smoking and heavy drinking can affect implants. If you smoke or drink a lot, it’s a good idea to discuss these habits with us.

Tooth Replacement Options

Here’s how dental implants compare to other options:

1. Dentures: Dentures are removable and can be less stable. They may also affect how you talk and chew.
2. Bridges: A bridge uses crowns on nearby teeth to hold a fake tooth in place. It works well but requires filing down the neighboring teeth.
3. Dental Implants:They are a lasting and natural-looking choice.They don’t require altering other teeth and help maintain your jawbone.

Implant Care and Maintenance

Taking care of your implants is simple:

1. Daily Brushing and Flossing: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Pay attention to the areas around the implants.
2. Regular Check-ups: Visit us regularly for cleanings and check-ups. We’ll make sure your implants are healthy and working well.
3. Be Careful with Hard Foods: Avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage your implants or crowns. Cut food into smaller pieces to protect them.
4. Quit Smoking: Smoking can harm your implants. If you smoke, it’s best to quit. We can help you with resources to stop smoking.
5. Wear a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth or play sports, use a mouthguard to protect your implants.

How a Dental Implant Restores Your Smile

Dental implants offer many benefits:

1. Looks Natural: Implants are designed to blend with your natural teeth.
2. Functionality: Implants help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence. They work just like natural teeth.
3. Bone Health: Implants help keep your jawbone strong by encouraging bone growth. This prevents bone loss that can happen with missing teeth.
4. Long-lasting: With good care, implants can last many years. TThey are a strong fix for missing teeth.

At Aurora Smiles in Mt. Vernon, NY, Dr. Amul Patel is here to help you achieve a beautiful and functional smile with dental implants. If you’re interested in implants or have any questions, contact us today to schedule a consultation.