Boston Dental Implants
Our team of dentists at Boston Center for Oral Health includes highly-trained prosthodontists Dr. Sam Shamardi, a worldwide expert in the field of dental implants. Dr. Sam Shamardi can perform dental implant procedures, giving you new teeth that look and feel like your own. We can replace missing teeth and also provide fixed solutions to removable dentures, both partial and full sets.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone and secured under the gums. The procedure is performed by a prosthodontist (a doctor with expertise in restoring and replacing teeth) and a periodontist (a doctor with expertise in the gums and supporting bone). The teeth attached to implants restore and often enhance a patient’s smile in a natural-looking way while also ensuring that the teeth function as they should.
What are implant-supported dentures?
Implant-supported dentures leave patients with strong and stable replacement of multiple teeth. There are multiple advantages of implant-supported dentures over traditional dentures. Because the dentures are anchored to the jaw using implants that function like the roots of natural teeth, you will not have to worry about the dentures becoming loose or falling out, and you should be able to eat foods that you were unable to eat before. There are two types of implant-supported dentures, bar-retained and ball-retained.
How long do dental implants last?
It is very common for dental implants to last for decades. Although we use very strong, stable and durable implants, our dentists may need to re-tighten or replace them due to normal wear over time.
Reasons for getting dental implants:
- Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth
- Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space
- Restore a patient’s confident smile
- Restore proper chewing, speech, and digestion
- Restore or enhance facial tissues
- Support a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable
What does getting dental implants involve?
Getting dental implants requires several visits spaced out over the course of several weeks or months, in order to allow time for proper healing. The dentist will first insert a small titanium implant where the root of the missing tooth was originally located. After this step, patients must allow time for the jaw bone to heal and secure the new implant(s) firmly in place. Once healed, the patient will have a strong foundation on top of which the permanent replacement tooth (or denture set) can be placed. During the initial healing phase, patients may be fitted with a temporary replacement tooth, temporary bridge or temporary denture set — depending on each patient’s unique circumstance — so there is less disruption to the normal look and function of teeth while the procedure is being carried out.
Pain medication and antibiotics will be prescribed as needed in order to ease the recovery process for the patient. Patients will receive care instructions at the conclusion of the procedure. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of dental implants.
Am I a candidate?
In order to get dental implants, a patient must have adequate bone in his or her jaw to support the implant. Therefore, the ideal candidate should have good oral health and healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease. At your initial visit, our dental implant experts will evaluate your teeth, gums and jaw bones to determine whether you are eligible for an implant procedure.
If you have any questions about implant-supported dentures, dental implants or available payment options, Boston Center for Oral Health is here with answers. Please contact us or schedule an appointment.