Dental Implants
The platinum standard for replacement of missing teeth.
Midwest Dental Implants is one of a few select dental offices in the Kansas City and St. Louis areas where the entire implant process is handled here in our office. The average dental practice will refer patients to a variety of specialists for the implant procedures. Because of our doctors specialized training in implant placements, our patients never have to leave the familiar comforts of Midwest Dental Implants.
A dental implant is an ideal tooth restoration for people who are missing one or more teeth for reasons like injury or periodontal disease.
Implant Procedures
Implant Placement
The implant process begins when a metal post is surgically positioned into the jaw. This post will act as a permanent “root” for the implanted tooth. Once it is in place, the surrounding bone and tissue needs time to heal.
Implant placement requires special training, as it is a surgical procedure. Our team is highly trained in implant placement to meet your dental needs.
Implant Restoration
After the metal post is placed for a dental implant, an implant restoration is performed. An implant restoration is typically completed with a replacement crown. An abutment will first be added to your implant, on top of which your new crown will be attached. We will work carefully to ensure that your new crown looks, acts and feels like a natural tooth in your mouth.
A dental implant is an ideal tooth restoration for people who are missing one or more teeth. While implants are typically more expensive than other methods of tooth replacement, they provide superior benefits. Implants are stronger than natural teeth and last many years. They are also a more favorable approach than bridgework, because they do not depend on neighboring teeth for support.
Implant Supported Dentures
For patients missing a majority of their teeth, implant-supported dentures are commonly used. Implant-supported dentures are dentures that are secured in place using implants in the jaw. They are often used when a patient no longer has teeth remaining in their mouth but enough bone in their jaw to support implants. Implant-supported dentures snap into place on top of implants but can be removed for cleaning.
Implant-supported dentures provide a number of benefits and are a great improvement from traditional removable dentures. They do not require any adhesives or powders to help the dentures stick and are very secure and comfortable, significantly improving the ability to chew. Because they preserve bone in the jaw and restore lip-support, implant-supported dentures also help maintain facial structures and minimize wrinkles.
Implant FAQs
How do implants work?
Through a process known as osseointegration, in which titanium metal is fused with the jawbone, small titanium screws are placed in the jaw via a comfortable outpatient surgical procedure, here in our office. After a period of healing, a crown is then placed over the implant replacing the missing tooth (or teeth). If properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime, as opposed to bridges and dentures, which need to be replaced every seven to 15 years.
How can implants help my denture fit better?
We can place implants into a jaw with no remaining teeth and use the posts to act as retaining clips for a denture. After doing so, the bulkier parts of the denture can be trimmed away leaving the patient far more comfortable eating, chewing and speaking. It has literally changed the lives of a number of our patients.
Why are implants the preferred option?
- Completely natural-looking option
- Nothing to ever put in or take out
- Allow for normal flossing and home care
- No chance of damage to adjacent teeth or bone structure