Dental implants consist of small titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone where the teeth are missing. The titanium post integrates with the jaw bone and creates a strong foundation that will eventually anchor the artificial tooth in place. Implants aid in preserving facial structure, prevent bone deterioration that can occur, and achieve the end goal of a healthy, confident smile.
Dental implants change lives by transforming a once self-conscious smile into a confident and happy one. They give missing teeth a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. At Westwood Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, Drs. Seeger, Gleason, and Inverso are experts in dental implants and can restore your smile and oral health.
To schedule your oral surgery consultation, please contact Westwood Oral Surgery & Dental Implants today.
Dental Implant Benefits
Prevents Bone Loss
In the event of a missing tooth, the jaw bone lacks stimulation and deteriorates. This can result in facial sagging. Dental implants can be used to preserve your jaw bone and preserve facial balance.
Long-Term Results
If proper oral hygiene and maintenance are practiced, dental implants can last a lifetime. Dental implants fuse directly to the living jaw bone and become a great addition to your new and healthy smile.
Looks Natural
Your dentist will construct a crown that blends naturally with your existing teeth. The results look so natural that most people can’t tell the difference between the dental implant and the natural tooth.
Comfortable and Secure
Dental implants feel just like natural teeth and are fixed in the mouth, so you can enjoy eating, speaking, and smiling with confidence.
Types of Dental Implants
As oral surgery experts who specialize in implant-based restorations, our doctors offer numerous types of implant treatments:
- Single tooth replacement is an option where surgeons can replace any tooth in the mouth with one dental implant, provided that there is adequate jaw bone to support the implant.
- Multiple tooth replacement can replace two or more teeth using individual implants or an implant-supported bridge.
- A full-arch restoration can restore an entire upper or lower arch of teeth. The fully functional prosthesis is supported by as few as four dental implants.
Dental Implant Procedure
During your consultation, one of our oral surgeons will evaluate your oral health and take 3D scans of your mouth. We will then discuss your options for tooth replacement and map out your custom care plan. Most patients undergo IV sedation for the dental implant procedure, but there are many different types of anesthesia options to choose from.
On the day of your procedure, we will apply the chosen form of anesthesia and wait for it to take full effect. Once this is complete, your oral surgeon will make an incision on the site of the gum tissue, drill a small hole, and then insert the implant. At this time, a small piece, called the healing abutment, will be connected to the implant. The healing abutment sits above the level of the gums so your dentist can find the implant when it is ready to be restored. If the healing abutment is not connected right away, then you will need to return for a second surgical procedure on a different date where you will get the abutment attached to the implant.
Over the course of the next few months, the implant will integrate with your jaw bone. You will visit your dentist to receive your final crown once fully healed.
Our office will provide patients with extensive instructions that will need to be followed after dental implant placement. It is important to follow these instructions closely, as they will help with a smooth and successful recovery.
X-Guide®
X-Guide is computer navigation system that uses a patient’s 3D imaging to guide dental implant placement in real-time. At your implant consultation, a 3D scan will be taken to visualize your jaw bone. The image data is then uploaded to the X-Guide system and the dental implant placement is virtually planned. On the day of surgery, the X-Guide system, similar to using a GPS system, directs the implant drill to the exact location, angulation, and depth of placement.
Our practice uses the X-Guide system for dental implant surgery to improve dental implant precision and decrease surgery time. Click the video below to learn more.
Types of Anesthesia
At Westwood Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we offer several types of anesthesia and sedation options.
Dental Implants in Woodbury Heights, NJ
Dental implants can drastically improve not only your smile, but your confidence and quality of life. There are many benefits to dental implants: prevention of bone loss, restoration of functionality, natural appearance, and longevity of an improved smile.
If you are interested in dental implants, we invite you to contact our office in Woodbury Heights, NJ. Drs. Seeger, Gleason, and Inverso are board-certified oral surgeons who will help you achieve the complete smile you deserve.
Hear From Dental Implants Patients
These patients can tell you about their firsthand experience undergoing dental implants at our office.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental implants last?
You may need a replacement if the crown becomes damaged or worn out. Implants are designed to last a lifetime because the implant post fuses with your jaw bone.
Who is not a candidate for dental implants?
Patients with missing or failing teeth qualify for dental implants. In the case that there is bone loss, we can rebuild the jaw bone with a technique known as bone grafting so we can proceed with implant placement. You are not a viable candidate for dental implants if you have certain medical conditions, periodontal disease, or experienced severe bone loss.
Are dental implants painful?
With the use of local anesthesia and sedation, you can expect to not feel any pain during the surgery. As your mouth heals after surgery, there will be some discomfort. By closely following post-operative instructions, most patients manage their pain with over-the-counter pain medications and by closely following the post-operative instructions provided for our patients.
Can you get gum disease with dental implants?
Similar to natural teeth, the risk of gum disease is still present with dental implants. However, this can be prevented by brushing and flossing often, and by seeing your trusted general dentist for recurring checkups.
Have an Exceptional Patient Experience
Get exceptional oral surgery care from board-certified oral surgeons you can trust. Contact Westwood Oral Surgery & Dental Implants to schedule a consultation.