Permanently Restore Your Smile
If tooth loss or dental injury has left gaps in your smile, it can not only make it hard to eat, speak, and socialize confident but also make you vulnerable to oral health issues. While there are many options for restoring missing teeth, our expert dentist may recommend dental implants for patients seeking an option that doesn’t need to be removed or require extra maintenance.
If you’re a Michigan patient in Westland, Livonia, Birmingham, Novi, or the surrounding areas in need of a permeant, natural-looking solution to tooth loss, we have the answer. Whether you’re looking to replace one tooth, multiple teeth, or a whole arch, Dr. Shlafer and our experienced dental team can provide the treatment you’re looking for. Read on to discover more about this exciting treatment option.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a prosthetic replacement tooth designed to replace missing teeth from root to crown. Most restoration options only replace the visible part of the tooth above the gumline. While this may restore function and aesthetics to your smile, the roots of your teeth are extremely important in keeping your jawbone stimulated. Without them, your jawbone can deteriorate over time. With dental implants, that’s no concern. They are designed to replace the roots of the teeth beneath the gum line to protect the integrity of your jaw.
Dental implants are strong, attractive, and long-lasting. They also help protect your smile against tooth decay and gum disease which is why there are highly recommended by our Farmington Hills dentist Dr. Shlafer.
Our Implant Solutions
Dental implants are a natural-looking permanent solution for your missing teeth. In addition to restoring your smile, dental implants are the only restoration that helps preserve your oral health. Gaps in your smile make the surrounding teeth and underlying gums more vulnerable to bacteria build-up which can lead to an array of dental problems. As well, without the support, other teeth may shift, creating more spaces for decay-causing bacteria to infiltrate your smile’s defenses. By filling the gap with a dental implant, not only does the implant protect your jawbone health but also reinforce the strength and integrity of your smile.
We understand that no two patients are the same, that’s why Dr. Kosinski offers multiple dental implant solutions to suit your unique needs.
Single Tooth
Multi-Tooth
Full Arch
What is the Dental Implant Process?
The dental implant process can be broken down into five simple steps:
- Your Free Consultation — The first step is scheduling a consultation with Dr. Shlafer so he can examine your oral health and determine the best treatment plan for you.
- Supplemental Procedures — If Dr. Shlafer identifies any potential issues during your consultation, you may be required to undergo supplemental treatments to prepare your smile for the implant process.
- Placement — Dr. Shlafer surgically attaches the titanium implant fixture to your jaw and uses a temporary restoration to protect the surgical area. For patients who suffer from dental anxiety, we offer sedation dentistry options.
- Recovery — It usually takes 3 to 6 months for your implant to fuse with your jawbone. This process is called osseointegration and it’s the primary reason for your implant’s remarkable strength and longevity.
- Restoration — Once your jawbone is fully integrated with the implant fixture, you’ll return to our office so Dr. Shlafer can attach the abutment (a small connecting piece) and top the implant with your natural-looking crown. Now you’ll be ready to show off your new smile to everyone around you.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
While dental implants are typically the best option for restoring missing teeth, not everyone is an immediate candidate. The success of the osseointegration is dependent on your body’s ability to heal, your oral health, and your jawbone density.
Some patients have conditions such as insufficient jawbone mass or gum disease that require treatment before we begin the implant process. Fortunately, supplemental procedures such as bone grafting to strengthen the jawbone or periodontal treatment for gum disease can prepare you for implant placement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental implants safe?
Yes! In fact, dental implants are the safest tooth replacement option for your long-term health, as they’re the only restoration that prevents jawbone deterioration. As long as your surgery is performed by an experienced and qualified dentist like Dr. Shlafer, dental implants are a totally safe procedure.
How long do dental implants last?
Your dental implant is designed to last a lifetime although your dental crown may need to be replaced every 15 to 20 years depending on your home care. After your treatment is complete, the success of your dental implant mostly depends on you. With proper care and oral hygiene, you can ensure your restoration lasts.
Proper oral care includes:
- Brushing twice a day
- Flossing once a day, preferably before bed
- Rinsing after meals
In tandem with scheduling a visit with Dr. Shlafer at least once every six months, we can help preserve the longevity of your implant and ensure your teeth remain plaque-free all year long.
How do you take care of your dental implants after the procedure?
Dental implants can be cleaned just like natural teeth, with daily brushing and flossing. Unlike dentures, you won’t need to rely on extra cleaning solutions or messy adhesives. Dr. Shlafer recommends using a soft-bristled brush and nylon floss to avoid scratching your implant. It’s also best to avoid brands of toothpaste that contain abrasive ingredients, such as those made for teeth whitening and smokers.