Dental Implants in Midland, MI

Addressing lost teeth is critical to the total health and quality of your smile. To help our Midland, MI neighbors efficiently overcome extracted or missing teeth, cosmetic dentist Dr. Edward Knight is incredibly happy to provide lifelike dental implants for tooth replacement using state-of-the-art Nobel Biocare™. A dental implant is made up of a metal screw that serves as a manmade tooth root. A custom crown, bridge, or denture replaces the observable part of the lost tooth or teeth. If you have a lost tooth or need a tooth extraction, visit Knight Dental Care, and find out about your dental implant alternatives.

Tooth loss can cause a whole host of cosmetic and functional problems. Dental implants are a great solution for people who want to improve their smiles and regain their confidence. Implants are also much more comfortable than dentures or other alternatives, and they can last a lifetime with proper care. Additional benefits of dental implants at Knight Dental Care include:

• Improved appearance: Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth — so you can smile with confidence.
• Enhanced oral health: Because dental implants fuse to your jawbone, they also stimulate and preserve bone mass.
• Improved speech: Temporary dentures can slip, causing mumbling and slurred speech. Dental implants allow you to speak without any problems.

Oral implants can take the place of any deteriorated teeth, ranging from one tooth to several teeth. You could be an ideal candidate if you have missing teeth, need a tooth or teeth removed, or are unhappy with your existing restoration. To function, dental implants require proper bone tissue, healthy gum tissue, and a reliable oral environment. Sometimes, people might have to have additional care before they qualify as good candidates for dental implants. Implant-supported restorations may not be appropriate if you are pregnant, smoke cigarettes, or have certain health problems. During your appointment, Dr. Knight can help you determine if oral implants are right for you and your needs. If you are missing more than one tooth, we offer alternatives to dental implants like dentures and dental bridges.

The technique for fixed implants comprises of carefully placing the implant and the attachment of customized replacements (like full-arch dentures, bridges, and crowns). As soon as your mouth is ready for the implant, it is dulled with oral anesthesia. For those that need it, sedation options may be available to provide extra comfort. The fixed screw will be secured within the jaw at a specific area and allowed a period of time to become one with the jaw via a phenomenon referred to as osseointegration. Knight Dental Care uses the cutting-edge technology of Nobel Biocare for premium fit, security, and function. When the treatment site has healed, typically after several months, Dr. Knight will set a unique fixed denture, crown, or bridge and evaluate the alignment of the bite.

Is getting dental implants painful?

Getting dental implants isn't any more uncomfortable than other dental procedures like fillings or root canals. Dr. Knight uses both local anesthetic and sedation along with an experienced hand to ensure you are comfortable during the entire procedure. During the recovery process, some discomfort is normal, but it is easily controlled with pain relievers. Some patients may also experience mild swelling, bruising, or minor bleeding, but this is also to be expected as your gums heal.

Are dental implants safe?

Yes, dental implants are safe. Every surgery, no matter how minor, carries a small amount of risk; however, dental implants have been widely used safely for more than 30 years with a 98% success rate.

How long does a dental implant last?

The metal post the crown, bridge, or denture is attached to is permanent, but these attachments have a lifespan of about 15 — 20 years or longer in some cases with proper oral hygiene before they need to be replaced.

How long does it take to get dental implants placed?

In general, it takes about six months to complete the dental implant procedure — for some, the process may be up to a year. The first part of the process includes placing the metal implants that will anchor the crown, bridge, or denture. While your gums heal, Dr. Knight will give you a temporary to wear. When the healing process is complete, you will have your permanent appliance placed onto your implant(s).

Who can get dental implants?

Almost anyone with healthy gums and enough bone to hold a dental implant is a good candidate for dental implants. People who may NOT be candidates for dental implants include those who:

• Have periodontal disease
• Have a chronic disease (diabetes, heart disease, etc.)
• Have had radiation therapy to the neck or head
• Use tobacco products
• Are pregnant

For those without enough bone or gum tissue to place the implant, there are procedures like a bone graft or gum graft that can allow you to have dental implants. During your consultation, Dr. Knight will examine your teeth, jaw, and overall oral health to determine if dental implants are right for you.

Because of the advancements in contemporary dental services, there are a variety of options to help you overcome the loss of teeth with the lifelike quality and abilities of fixed implants. Dr. Knight is happy to offer implant-supported denture, crown, and bridge solutions as efficient tooth replacements to Midland, MI people. To learn about your opportunities for replacing extremely compromised or missing teeth, or learn more about cost, financing, and insurance, schedule your checkup at Knight Dental Care as soon as you can.