Everything You Need to Know About Dental Implants

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Welcome to Overland Park Dental Design, your trusted partner in achieving a healthy, confident smile. If you have missing teeth and are looking for a permanent solution, dental implants might be the perfect option. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about dental implants, including their benefits, the process, and why they might be the right choice for you.

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What Are Dental Implants?

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Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made from biocompatible materials like titanium. They are surgically placed into the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Dental implants mimic natural teeth' look, feel, and function, offering a durable and long-lasting solution for tooth loss.

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Benefits of Dental Implants

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Dental implants offer numerous advantages over traditional tooth replacement options:

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• Natural Appearance: Dental implants are designed to look and feel like your natural teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result.
• Improved Functionality: Implants restore full chewing power, allowing you to eat your favorite foods without worry.
• Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective long-term solution.
• Bone Preservation: Implants help prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone, maintaining facial structure and preventing the sunken appearance that can occur with missing teeth.
• Enhanced Comfort: Unlike dentures, implants are securely anchored in your jawbone, eliminating the discomfort and inconvenience of removable prosthetics.
• Improved Oral Health: Dental implants do not require altering adjacent teeth, preserving the health of your natural teeth.

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The Dental Implant Process

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The process of getting dental implants involves several steps, each crucial to ensuring their success and longevity.

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Initial Consultation and Examination

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All our patients begin with a records appointment, where Dr. Lillis conducts a comprehensive examination. We take X-rays, intra-oral scans, and a Cone Beam Scan. At a later date, we schedule a consultation to review the X-rays and discuss a personalized treatment plan. This initial evaluation at Overland Park Dental Design ensures a thorough assessment of your oral health and suitability for dental implants. Founded in California, we have an exclusive invitation-only partnership with one of the nation's top dental implant laboratories to ensure an ideal fit and aesthetic.  

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Implant Placement

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Once you are deemed a suitable candidate, the next step is the surgical placement of the dental implant. All of our dental implants are referred out to the oral surgeon we work with.  They place all dental implants then we restore them when they are ready.  They are not always done under local anesthesia.  Depending on the case and patient needs, semi-conscious anesthesia or general anesthesia is needed.  This is discussed and determined by the surgeon prior to the surgery. Over the next few months, the implant will integrate with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and stable foundation.

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Abutment Placement

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After the implant has successfully integrated with the jawbone, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant. The abutment serves as the base for the replacement tooth. This minor procedure is usually done under local anesthesia and requires minimal recovery time.

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Placement of the Crown

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The final step in the dental implant process is the placement of the custom-made crown. The crown is designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, ensuring a natural and harmonious appearance. Once the crown is securely attached to the abutment, you will have a fully functional and aesthetically pleasing replacement tooth.

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Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

While dental implants are an excellent solution for many people, certain factors can affect your candidacy. Ideal candidates for dental implants should have:

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• Good Oral Health: Healthy gums and adequate bone density are essential for supporting the implant.
• Overall Health: Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or heart disease can affect healing and implant success. It's important to discuss your medical history with your dentist.
• Non-Smokers: Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure. If you smoke, our expert dentists may recommend quitting before undergoing the procedure. We will discuss this during your consultation.

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Caring for Your Dental Implants

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Maintaining your dental implants is crucial for their longevity and functionality. Here are some tips to keep your implants in excellent condition:

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• Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease.
• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Visit Overland Park Dental Design for routine check-ups and cleanings to monitor the health of your implants and surrounding tissues.
• Avoid Hard Foods: While implants are strong, it's best to avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or hard candies to prevent damage.

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Why Choose Overland Park Dental Design?

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At Overland Park Dental Design, we are committed to providing top-quality dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Here are a few reasons why you should choose us for your dental implant needs:

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• Expertise: Our team of highly skilled dentists has extensive experience in placing and restoring dental implants, ensuring optimal results.
• Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to deliver precise and effective treatment.
• Personalized Care: We take the time to understand your unique needs and customize your treatment plan to achieve the best possible outcome.
• Comprehensive Services: From the initial consultation to the final placement of the crown, we provide comprehensive care every step of the way.

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Conclusion

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Dental implants offer a durable, natural-looking, and functional solution for replacing missing teeth. At Overland Park Dental Design, we are dedicated to helping you restore your smile and improve your quality of life with our expert dental implant services. If you are considering dental implants, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team to discuss your options and begin your journey towards a healthier, more confident smile.

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Ready to restore your smile with dental implants? Contact us today to book your appointment and take the first step towards a more confident you. What are you waiting for? Book your appointment with Overland Park Dental Design now.

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