Dental Implants

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. People who have lost teeth regain the ability to speak, chew, and smile with confidence, knowing that their teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants themselves are titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

Dental implants can truly improve the quality of patients’ lives! No longer must a denture wearer not eat the foods they love or be embarrassed to laugh or smile. With dental implants, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

If, like many of our patients, you feel implant dentistry is the right choice for you, Dr. Palmer will consult with you concerning your specific problems and goals. Dr. Palmer is currently the only dentist in Charleston board certified by the American Board of Oral Implantology / Implant Dentistry in implant dentistry. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help you achieve your goals!

Why Replace Missing Teeth?

Replacing missing teeth is much more than just having a pretty smile. You can improve your quality of life by replacing your missing teeth. The loss of teeth compromises your ability to eat fruits, vegetables and other healthy food, which are such an important part of your diet. Watch the video to learn why you should replace your missing teeth and how to go about doing so:

Procedure

Dental implants are the most effective way to replace a missing tooth, and act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. Small abutment posts are then attached to the implant. These posts provide stable anchors for crowns or dentures.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to five months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You will be able to wear temporary dentures and eat as before during this healing time.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. The implants will be uncovered and a small healing collar placed. Then, Dr. Palmer will be able to begin making your new teeth. Dental impressions must be taken. Then abutments or attachments can be connected to the implants. The teeth replacements are then made over the abutments or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes four to six months, and the improvement in the quality of life for most patients makes dental implant therapy the most requested procedure in dentistry today!