Learn About Dental Implant Options in Salisbury

Understanding Dental Implants: What They Are and How They Work

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made from titanium that are surgically placed into your jawbone to support replacement teeth. They function differently from other tooth replacement options because they integrate directly with your bone through a process called osseointegration. This means the implant becomes a permanent part of your jaw structure, providing a stable foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures.

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The basic structure of a dental implant consists of three main parts. The implant itself is a small screw-like post that goes into the bone. An abutment is a connector piece that sits on top of the implant and holds the replacement tooth. The crown is the visible artificial tooth that looks and functions like a natural tooth. This three-part system mimics how your natural teeth work, with roots anchoring teeth to bone.

Titanium is used for implants because it bonds with bone in a way that other materials do not. Your jawbone actually grows around the implant over several months, creating a strong bond. This integration process typically takes between three to six months, though some people may need additional time depending on bone quality and other factors. During this waiting period, your bone is strengthening around the implant.

Dental implants can replace one tooth, multiple teeth, or serve as anchors for full dentures. A single implant with a crown can replace one missing tooth. Multiple implants can support a bridge that spans several missing teeth. For people missing all their teeth, implants can stabilize a full denture so it does not slip or move while eating or speaking.

Implants differ from bridges and dentures in important ways. A traditional bridge requires grinding down teeth on either side of the missing tooth to support the replacement. A denture rests on your gums and must be removed for cleaning. Implants preserve the structure of neighboring teeth and stay in place permanently, though they do require daily cleaning just like natural teeth.

Takeaway: Understanding the basic anatomy and function of dental implants helps you understand why they require multiple appointments over several months and why bone health matters for successful placement.

Types of Dental Implants Available in Salisbury

Dental practices in Salisbury offer several types of implant systems and treatment approaches. The most common type is the endosteal implant, which is placed directly into the jawbone. These are screw-shaped or cylinder-shaped and represent the majority of implants used today. Endosteal implants work well for most patients who have adequate bone height and width in the jaw.

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Subperiosteal implants are another option, though less commonly used. These implants sit on top of the jawbone but under the gum tissue. They may be recommended for patients who have experienced significant bone loss and cannot undergo bone grafting procedures. A subperiosteal implant has a metal framework that fits over the bone, with posts protruding through the gums to hold the replacement teeth.

Zygomatic implants are a specialized option for patients with severe upper jawbone loss. These longer implants anchor into the cheekbone rather than the upper jaw. While available through some specialists, this is a more complex procedure that requires specific training and is not performed at every dental practice. Patients in Salisbury seeking this option should look for dentists with advanced implant training.

Mini implants are smaller in diameter than standard implants and may be used to replace a single tooth or provide additional support for dentures. They require less bone volume than standard implants, which makes them an option for some patients with bone loss. However, mini implants may not be suitable for all situations, as they have different load-bearing capacities than standard implants.

Salisbury dental offices also differ in the implant brands and systems they use. Major manufacturers include Straumann, Zimmer Biomet, Nobel Biocare, and Osstem. Different systems have varying designs, surface treatments, and compatibility with different crown and abutment options. Your dentist can explain which system they use and why it may be appropriate for your situation.

All-on-4 and similar techniques represent another approach where a full arch of teeth is supported by just four or six implants rather than one implant per missing tooth. This approach reduces the total number of implants needed and can be more economical while still providing a stable, functional set of replacement teeth.

Takeaway: Different implant types and systems exist for different situations. Your dentist will recommend options based on your bone volume, the number of teeth needing replacement, and other individual factors.

The Dental Implant Process: From Consultation to Completion

The journey toward getting dental implants begins with a consultation appointment. During this visit, your dentist will examine your mouth, take X-rays or CT scans, and discuss your goals for tooth replacement. They will assess your jawbone height and width to determine if you have sufficient bone to support implants or if bone grafting is necessary. Your overall health history and current medications will be reviewed, as certain conditions and medications can affect implant success.

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If bone grafting is needed, this may be the first surgical step. Bone grafting involves adding bone material to areas where your jaw is too thin or short. This material may come from another part of your body, a donor source, or be synthetic. After bone grafting, you typically need to wait several months for the new bone to integrate before implant placement can occur.

Once you have adequate bone, the implant placement surgery is scheduled. This is typically an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia, though some dentists offer sedation options for anxious patients. During the surgery, your dentist makes an incision in the gum, drills a hole into the bone, and places the titanium implant. The gum is then stitched closed, and the implant begins the integration process. This surgery usually takes one to two hours, depending on the number of implants being placed.

The integration period follows implant placement. During this three to six month period, you must avoid putting pressure on the implant. Your dentist will provide specific instructions about eating, cleaning, and activity restrictions. It is crucial to follow these instructions carefully, as disturbance of the implant during integration can cause it to fail. You may wear a temporary tooth or denture during this time if the missing tooth affects your appearance or function.

After integration is complete, the abutment and crown are placed. Your dentist may need another small surgery to uncover the implant top, though some implants are designed to avoid this second surgery. Once the implant is ready, the abutment is attached, and impressions are taken for your custom crown. Your final crown is then placed and adjusted for proper bite and appearance.

The entire process from initial consultation to final crown placement typically takes six to twelve months. Some cases move faster, while others take longer depending on bone quality and the need for grafting procedures.

Takeaway: Understanding the timeline helps you plan for multiple appointments and understand why rushing the process can compromise results.

Factors Affecting Implant Success and Candidacy in Salisbury

Bone quality and quantity directly impact whether dental implants will succeed. Your jawbone needs sufficient height and width to support the implant. Bone loss occurs naturally after tooth loss because the bone no longer receives stimulation from the tooth root. The longer a tooth has been missing, the more bone loss typically occurs. Dentists in Salisbury use imaging to measure your bone and determine if you need bone grafting before implant placement.

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Overall health conditions affect implant outcomes. Uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and certain medications can slow bone healing or affect integration. Smoking significantly increases implant failure risk because it reduces blood flow to the surgical site and impairs healing. Patients who smoke are counseled about quitting or at least reducing smoking during the healing period.

Gum health matters considerably. Patients with active gum disease should have it treated before implant placement, as infection around implants (peri-implantitis) can cause implant failure. Good oral hygiene is essential both before and after implant placement. Your ability and willingness to maintain implants with daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits affects long-term success.

Age is not an absolute barrier to implants. Older adults with good bone quality and general health can successfully have implants placed. However, implants are typically not recommended for growing children and teenagers whose jaws are still developing. Once jaw growth is complete, usually