Whether they were lost due to trauma, decay, or extraction, closing the gaps in your teeth may seem like an impossible task. However, with dental implantsdental implants, you can replace your missing teeth to renew and rejuvenate your smile. Whether you have one gap, several gaps, or need to replace all the teeth on an arch, dental implants can help you. Find out more about dental implants with Dr. Orson Baek at Smart Family Dental Care in Norcross, GA.

Parts of a Dental Implant 
Dental implants are held in place by the implant’s fixture, which your dentist will surgically implant into the jawbone underneath your missing tooth. The fixture is a small, titanium post which “screws” into the bone. After implantation, the bone grows around the fixture to lock it firmly and permanently into place. The implant’s prosthetic is usually a dental crown, a porcelain, tooth-shaped cap, which fits over the implant’s fixture to replace the missing tooth itself. The implant’s abutment connects the two main pieces together and anchors them both into place.

Dental Implants vs Other Tooth Replacement Options
A dental implant replaces both the tooth and its root permanently, without the help of any surrounding teeth. The implant stands alone and can last a lifetime with the right care. A dental bridge, however, requires the help of the healthy teeth surrounding the gap. The teeth must fit inside the crowns on either side of the bridge, requiring a preparation procedure on the healthy teeth. The bridge also sits above the gumline and does not stimulate the bone to keep it healthy as an implant does.

Dental Implants in Norcross, GA
Dental implants require a sufficient amount of bone in which to lie, indicating that patients with significant bone atrophy within the area of their implant may require a bone graft prior to their implant. This rebuilds the implant site and strengthens the bone to provide a good foundation for the implant.

For more information on dental implants, please contact Dr. Orson Baek at Smart Family Dental in Norcross, GA. Call (770) 446-5700 to schedule your consultation for dental implants with Dr. Baek today!