Dental Implants

Dental implants at Sala Family Dentistry are a great option for anyone who has a missing tooth or teeth.  Developed in the 1970’s by a Swedish orthopedic surgeon who discovered that a titanium screw implanted into bone would naturally be incorporated within the body, dental implant surgery is now considered one of the best methods for permanently replacing a missing tooth or teeth.

For years, the only way we could fill in gaps from missing teeth was by fitting our patients with bridges, removable partial or full dentures. As far as outward appearances go, these devices did what they were meant to do – supplement spaces with filler teeth. However, bridges and dentures didn’t account for the damaging side effect of instability in the gums and bone surrounding these voids.  In areas without teeth the bone that previously supported the teeth begins to atrophy, like a leg in a cast, and can create problematic defects.  This process is called resorption, and if untreated it can progress to the point where the mouth becomes unstable leading to a decreased ability to chew.  By serving as the artificial root to which new teeth are attached, they stimulate the bone and help prevent this process.  

Implants are stable, long lasting, and do not rely on neighboring teeth, like a bridge, for support. They are an ideal option for tooth replacement because they function like a natural tooth. There are many different applications for implants including the stabilization of dentures and the replacement of missing teeth. They are typically constructed of titanium, a strong and safe material, which is effectively incorporated into bone. The procedure to get an implant typically involves three steps: the implant placement, osseointegration, the period of healing for the jaw, and the placement of the new tooth (implant supported crown).

It's no surprise that there is a high demand for dental implants at our office.  We have found our patients enjoy that this type of replacement tooth, anchored in the bone, significantly enhances their quality of life – not only in terms of appearance, but also in the health and function of their teeth.

To find out if you are a candidate to restore a missing tooth or teeth with dental implants, please call Sala Family Dentistry today so we can help you reclaim your full, healthy smile.

For more information on dental implants, please visit our Reno Dental Implants website.