Dental Implants
Restore Your Smile
Dental Implants in Oshkosh
Dr. Govani of Oshkosh and her trusted specialists have the dental implant knowledge to restore your smile with dental implants that look and feel like real teeth. For patients missing one or more teeth, have severely damaged teeth that need to be removed or those that have lost the ability to smile, there are solutions. Dental implants are a great option to restore your smile.
What are Dental Implants?
The American Dental Association considers dental implants to be one of the most significant advancements in dentistry in the past 40 years.
Dental implants are made of titanium, a strong lightweight metal, and other safe materials. The dental implant procedure begins with surgically placing the dental implant, or a metal “root,” in the jaw. The implant provides the support needed for the new crown once it integrates to the jaw bone. Govani Dental then places a custom tooth (abutment) with a crown on top of the implant in a shade that matches the rest of the teeth.
Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth
When not replaced, missing teeth it can lead to loss of function when chewing or speaking. With teeth missing, shifting and drifting can occur of remaining teeth. For example, teeth above the space could shift down, and adjacent teeth could move into the empty space. In addition, bone loss will occur in the area of the missing tooth, causing remaining teeth to change position over time.
Because dental implants take time, the procedures can be completed in phases. During the process, Dr. Govani will recommend the fabrication of a space maintainer to help hold the space to prevent teeth from shifting and drifting. This will also aid in a temporary option to prevent missing teeth from being visible while speaking or smiling.
Dental Implants
To maintain bone, optimal function of your teeth and achieve a cosmetic outcome, Govani Dental believes dental implants are an ideal option for many patients. With patient commitment to routine dental care, they can last the longest and save on cost.
While implants cannot decay like teeth, they are susceptible to periodontal disease. For this reason, implants need the same care as natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, dental checkups and cleanings will help maintain the bone and tissue that support the implant.
Implants vs. Partial Dentures and Bridges
For those who are missing teeth, Govani Dental has treatment options from fixed implants to removable options, including a retainer or partial denture.
Partial Denture
The partial denture is worn during the day and then removed while sleeping. A retainer or partial denture keep teeth from shifting and drifting. However, removable options do not maintain bone height and loss of teeth will lead to more bone loss without bone grafting or implant placement.
A challenge with removable options are they are not as stable and some people experience loss of chewing function. There are patients that find it hard to adapt to eating with a removable partial because it is not fixed in place.
Fixed Dental Bridge
Govani Dental offers a more fixed option, like a bridge, which requires the teeth in front of and behind the missing teeth to be crowned. The missing tooth will need to be replaced with a bridge abutment; the bridge looks good and provides more function than a retainer or partial denture. A disadvantage to keep in mind is that the adjacent teeth must be prepared (cut), compromising the teeth with crowns. The health of the prepared teeth and tissue needs to be monitored carefully.
Implant Fixed Dental Bridge
A fixed implant bridge can offer support and stability to maintain bone height and help replace multiple missing teeth in a region of the mouth that is missing teeth.
Implant Reconstruction Options
When all teeth are missing or hopeless there are fixed implant reconstruction options. Dr. Govani has taken much additional training and enjoys helping those who need rehabilitation options.
How to Know if Dental Implants are Right for You
Dr. Govani will do a full examination to evaluate you to ensure dental implants are the best option for you before proceeding with treatment. While implant dentistry provides a stable replacement for missing teeth, it is not right for everyone.
Optimal Dental Implant Candidates
Ideal patients for dental implants should be in good physical health. In addition, patients need to have enough bone to support the implant or be willing to have bone grafting procedures completed. Our cone beam technology the OP-3D allows Dr. Govani to evaluate type, quantity and quality of bone.
Patient Commitment
Dental implants take time and patients need to be willing to invest the time it takes for the healing process to take place. They need to be committed and able to maintain good oral health; keeping the tissues clean and keeping regular appointments to ensure tissue health. It is critical for the patient to understand the importance and standard of care to protect the implant with a night guard while sleeping.
If you are not an optimal candidate it does not mean implants can not be considered. There are patients that understand they have more risk but with proper homecare, lifestyle changes and health management they can achieve success with dental implants. Once the evaluation is complete, Dr. Govani will help you decide the best option for replacing your missing or damaged teeth.
Ready to Join the Govani Dental Family?
If you’re interested in becoming a Govani Dental patient, schedule your appointment online or by calling 920-231-1955.
