At Paradise Dental Associates in Salem, MA, we understand that the thought of getting a dental implant can be a little overwhelming. Especially if you need to replace all or most of your teeth. However, we want to assure you that getting your perfect dental implant is easier than you think with Dr. Helyne on your side.
Dr. Helyne has extensive postdoctoral training in periodontology, which allows her to provide advanced dental implant therapy right here in our Salem dental office. Her expertise in dental implant therapy and expanded implant procedures means that you can trust her to provide you with the best possible care and results.
How Dental Implants Work
Dental implants are a form of tooth replacement that uses a small titanium post. The implant is then surgically inserted into the jawbone—near the site of your missing tooth—to mimic the functional root in your new “tooth.” The bone around the implant is naturally attracted to the titanium surface, causing new bone to grow around it and fuse to the implant. We call this process “osseointegration,” and it’s what allows your implant to become a permanent part of your smile. Once completely integrated, your new implant(s) can support a fixed crown, bridge, or multi-tooth restoration on top of it. The implant itself simply makes up the root portion of your new restoration.
Different Types of Dental Implants
There are different types of dental implants and implant designs available today. Such as traditional implants (which are the most popular) as well as mini and zygomatic designs. Additionally, some patients prefer an “All-on-4” approach, where all of their teeth in one arch are replaced with as few as four implants in total. As an implant specialist, Dr. Helyne will work with you to determine the best option for your specific needs and goals.
Does it Hurt to Get Dental Implants?
One of the most common concerns about dental implants is whether or not the treatment will be painful. It is important to note that while there may be some minor discomfort following the procedure, dental implant placement is a minimally invasive procedure. Any post-treatment irritation can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication. The majority of our Salem dental implant patients say that getting implants is easier than having a tooth extracted! Additionally, Dr. Helyne will provide you with detailed instructions for post-surgery care to help ensure a smooth recovery.
Implants vs. Dentures
How do dental implants compare to dentures? Dentures are a removable option for replacing missing teeth, but they can sometimes be uncomfortable or slip or shift in your mouth. Dental implants, on the other hand, are permanent and provide a more natural feeling.
Implants also help to preserve the jawbone, which can shrink over time with missing teeth. Whereas wearing a denture may encourage bone resorption (shrinkage.) Because the implants promote osseointegration around them, they can help prevent premature aging in your mouth and face.
It’s possible to blend implants and dentures together in some cases. For example, an implant-supported overdenture or “snap-on” denture is a prosthesis that clips onto 2-4 dental implants to hold it in place. This removable denture may be an ideal option for some of our Salem patients.
Considerations Before Getting Dental Implants
It’s worth noting that in some cases, dental extractions and bone grafting may be required before getting dental implants. In some cases, sinus lift surgery may also be necessary. Especially if you have gone quite some time with missing teeth and there is a significant amount of bone resorption.
The good news is that working with an implant specialist provides you with more options regarding your smile reconstruction. Dr. Helyne will thoroughly evaluate your case and discuss any potential considerations with you before proceeding with the implant process. If additional steps are needed, this could add 3-4 months to your implant timeline, as your mouth will need to recover from the surgery before the implants are installed.
Why Work With an Implant Dentist?
Why should you consider working with an implant dentist like Dr. Helyne? For one, an implant dentist has the specialized training and experience needed to place dental implants safely and effectively, even in more complex scenarios. Additionally, an implant dentist can provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan and follow-up care to ensure the best outcome without additional outside referrals.
At Paradise Dental Associates, we’re committed to providing our patients with the highest quality care and service. Dr. Helyne’s expertise in periodontology and dental implant therapy means that you can trust us to help you achieve your perfect smile. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about our dental implants in Salem, MA.
