Are Dental Implants Right for You?

Before dental implants, there were very few options to help fix your smile after dental extractions. Thanks to evolving technology in dentistry, dental implants have completely changed the way you can fix your smile. If you are in the Bay City, Saginaw, or Midland, MI area and think dental implants may be the right course of action for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Matthew Ward today at Bay City Dental Center.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are metal posts designed specifically for your mouth and are surgically implanted into the jaw below the gumline. After the wound is healed, we can then attach either individual teeth, dentures, or bridges. The implants perform the same basic tasks as the roots of your teeth; they anchor the false teeth into place. Dental implants are a more permanent solution to the problem many of our patients face. However, your jawbone must be in sufficient condition for you to be eligible to get implants.

How dental implants work

Each dental implant surgery is unique, depending on the condition of your jaw and what type of implant you plan on getting. The surgery can involve several stages and procedures, including:

• Removal of teeth

• Preparation of jawbone

• Placement of dental implant

• Healing time for your bone

• Final tooth placement

Since the bone must heal tightly around the implant, it could take a few months to complete the full process.

Types of dental implants

The type of implant you get is determined by your bone density and other factors. If your jawbone does not meet requirements, there may be other options for you. At Bay City Dental Center in Bay City, MI, we offer five types of dental implants.

All-on-4®: The All-on-4 implants are designed for full arch rehabilitation with only four implants. With this plan, if your jawbone meets the requirements, you can be fitted with a temporary bridge while the final prosthesis is being made.

All on 6: The All on 6 plan is an almost immediate solution for those who fit the requirements. It is not recommended for smokers or diabetics.

Permanent implant: A permanent implant is for those whose teeth are damaged or missing completely. Metal posts are placed where you are missing teeth, and a false prosthetic tooth is put into place. You can even put entire denture implants in.

Dentures: If you have no teeth, we can implant a set of dentures in those with sufficient bone density. For those without sufficient bone density, there is an option as well.

Sinus lift: The sinus lift adds bone to the upper jaw to allow those who would otherwise not be suitable for implants to get dental implants.

Where can I find dental implants in Bay City, MI?

With the new technological advances in dental implants, there is now a long-term solution for patients who struggle with missing or damaged teeth. The multi-step process may take multiple procedures and months to finish, but dental implants have changed the restorative and cosmetic dentistry field. Contact Bay City Dental Center in Bay City, MI today for a full consultation with Dr. Matthew Ward on your dental health and to see if dental implants are right for you.