What to expect from the “gold standard” in tooth replacement with dental implants

At Nashua Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry, PLLC, we only apply products and materials that enhance our patients’ smiles and overall well-being. Dental implants represent one of the most sought-after treatments among individuals in our area of southern New Hampshire and far beyond.

What to expect from the “gold standard” in tooth replacement with dental implants

Before implants, no other form of tooth replacement (conventional bridges and removable dentures) accounted for the other parts of tooth structure. Optimal stability, comfort, durability, and other benefits stem from a “design” that imitates the design of natural, healthy tissue. 

Get to know the implant process

During a consultation at our office, one of our talented dentists gathers precision images of your oral structures. Diagnostic technologies help to determine the type of tooth replacement that is best for you and inform treatment planning. “Systems” may differ, but all implant-retained prosthetic teeth generally involve placing small, cylindrical-shaped posts in the jawbone by an oral surgeon during an in-office procedure well-tolerated with numbing medication.

If the jawbone has deteriorated and requires a “build-up” with grafting, it may be performed at the same time as implant placement. Or, the surgeon may wait for the bone to heal and grow. So, a healthy jawbone provides a strong foundation for the implant.

Titanium has been used for years in surgeries to replace hip, knee, and shoulder joints. However, at Nashua Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry, PLLC, we proudly provide alternatives such as metal-free ceramic dental implants for patients with concerns about or a history of metal sensitivities and adverse reactions.

All implant patients should generally expect: 

  • To go over the healing process. While it can take months for the implant to heal and join to the jaw, many factors can affect the time required for this step, including your general health, needs, and the type of implant or system used
  • We advise on nutrition and ways to care for your implant during this healing stage and to ensure treatment remains on schedule
  • Following proper integration into the bone, the implant is “restored” with a crown. Or, a few implants may be used to restore, attach to, and secure a bridge or partial denture
  • Modern implant systems minimize the trauma and costs of treatment while maximizing gains; accordingly, as few as four implants can be positioned in the jaw to support or retain an entire upper or lower denture

Since implant-retained crowns, bridges, and dentures mimic the structure of natural teeth, they hold up well for many decades with consistent home and professional care. 

Prosthetic teeth may not decay, but the area around the implant is susceptible to damaging inflammation. The unique structure of an implant-supported prosthesis also helps to keep the connected bone in the jaw strong, which prevents or stops devastating bone loss. 

Proudly serving New Hampshire and surrounding areas, our team at Nashua Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry, PLLC, can be reached at (855) 363-3793 with questions or to schedule a consultation.