The Gold Standard for Tooth Replacement
At our Princeton office, the surgeons of West Jersey Oral, Maxillofacial, & Dental Implant Surgery offer the premier solution for missing teeth: dental implants. Considered the modern standard of care, dental implants are a permanent and highly successful way to restore the natural look, feel, and function of your smile. Our board-certified oral surgeons utilize the latest technology and a compassionate, patient-focused approach to rebuild your smile and your confidence.
Understanding How Dental Implants Work
A dental implant is a sophisticated prosthetic designed to replicate the entire structure of a natural tooth. It consists of three main parts:
- The implant post: A small, biocompatible titanium screw that is surgically placed into the jaw bone, acting as a new tooth root.
- The abutment: A connector piece that is attached to the implant post and sits just above the gum line.
- The crown: A custom-made, natural-looking ceramic tooth that is secured to the abutment, completing your smile.
The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth
Failing to replace a missing tooth can lead to a cascade of oral health issues over time. A dental implant is the only solution that addresses all of these concerns.
1. Jaw Bone Deterioration
When a tooth is lost, the jaw bone that once supported it begins to shrink from lack of stimulation. This can alter the shape of your face and create a sunken appearance.
2. Shifting of Adjacent Teeth
The gap left by a missing tooth can cause the surrounding teeth to drift out of alignment, leading to bite problems and potential TMJ issues.
3. Compromised Function
A missing tooth can make it difficult to chew food properly, which may limit your diet and affect your nutrition.
Types of Dental Implants and Materials
We offer a variety of dental implant solutions, and our surgeons will recommend the best option for your unique needs during your consultation.
Single Tooth Replacement
To replace a single missing tooth, one dental implant is placed into the jaw bone. A custom-made crown is then attached to the implant, creating a seamless and permanent restoration that is indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
Multiple Tooth Replacement
If you are missing several teeth in a row, an implant-supported bridge can be used. This involves placing two or more implants to serve as strong anchors for a fixed bridge, eliminating the need to alter adjacent healthy teeth as a traditional bridge would require.
Implant Materials
The vast majority of dental implants used worldwide are made from titanium. This biocompatible metal is incredibly strong and has a proven ability to fuse directly with the jaw bone in a process called osseointegration. For patients who may prefer a metal-free option, zirconia implants are a modern alternative. Zirconia is a very strong, tooth-colored ceramic material that also integrates well with bone. Our surgeons will discuss the benefits of each material with you to select the best option for your specific clinical needs.
The Dental Implant Process at Our Princeton Office
Your path to a new smile is a carefully planned process. It begins with a detailed consultation, where we use our state-of-the-art 3D CBCT scanner to virtually plan the ideal placement of your implant. The surgical placement is a comfortable in-office procedure performed under your choice of anesthesia. Over the next few months, the implant will fuse with your jaw bone. Once healed, your general dentist will attach the final custom crown.
Advanced Technology for Implant Success
The success of a dental implant relies on a healthy foundation and precise planning. Our practice utilizes the most advanced technology to ensure the best possible results. If you have experienced bone loss, our surgeons are experts in bone grafting procedures to rebuild the jaw and create the necessary support for an implant. Our use of 3D imaging is critical for every case, as it allows us to assess the bone quality and map out the entire surgery with incredible accuracy before the procedure even begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Most people with one or more missing teeth are excellent candidates for dental implants. The primary requirement is having sufficient jaw bone to support the implant. If you have experienced bone loss, our surgeons are experts in bone grafting procedures to prepare you for a successful implant.
Is the dental implant procedure painful?
No. Patients are completely comfortable during the procedure. We offer a full range of anesthesia options, from local anesthetic to IV sedation, to ensure a painless and anxiety-free experience.
How long does the process take?
The entire process, from implant placement to the final crown, can take several months to allow for the crucial healing period where the implant fuses with your jaw bone. The exact timeline depends on your individual healing and any preparatory procedures needed.
How do I care for my dental implants?
You care for your dental implants just like you would your natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups. With proper care, a dental implant can last a lifetime.
Schedule Your Consultation
The first step toward resolving your oral health concerns is a personal consultation with one of our board-certified oral surgeons. Contact our Princeton or Flemington office today to schedule your appointment with our expert team and experience our compassionate, patient-first approach to care.