Cincinnatti Periodontist

Dr. Cassity is trained on advanced dental implant procedures to restore your oral comfort and function.  These procedures include:  dental implants to replace missing teeth; implant stabilization of dentures; sinus lifts and bone grafting to allow patients with decreased bone to become candidates for implants.

One of her highest priorities is patient education.  During an initial examination and consultation, Dr. Cassity will discuss all options for treatment and help you come to an informed decision.  Please do not hesitate to voice any questions you may have.

Replacing a Missing Tooth

Dental implants mimic the natural tooth root.

A natural tooth is anchored into the jawbone by its root. Tooth roots attach firmly to the jawbone and keep your teeth stable when chewing solid foods.

Traditionally, if you were missing a tooth or if one needed to be extracted, the healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth would be cut down and the one missing tooth would be replaced with a three-crown "bridge."

Dental implants are the modern alternative. Instead of cutting down two perfectly healthy teeth, Dr. Cassity inserts a dental post (dental implant) into the jawbone to replace your missing tooth root. The dental implant  becomes solidly fixed into your jaw (like a natural tooth root). Your general dentist then places a crown onto this artificial tooth root that looks, feels, and functions like your natural teeth.

Quite simply, dental implants are the most natural replacement for missing teeth.

Replacing Several Missing Teeth

Traditionally, several missing teeth would have been replaced with a removable partial or full denture.

Dentures have to be taken out and soaked at night. During the day, they can also look unnatural and rub painfully. Dentures and partials make it difficult, if not impossible, to eat certain foods.

Dental Implant Supported Dentures are firmly anchored to the jawbone. This helps to prevent bone loss and mimics the feel of natural teeth.

Dental implants can now be used to anchor partials and full dentures. This prevents the slipping, irritation, and pain associated with "floating" partials and dentures. In some cases dentures can be replaced with non-removable teeth that are attached to the dental implants, eliminating  removal of dentures for overnight soaking and cleaning. Dental implants also eliminate the need for dental adhesives. This allows you to enjoy eating the foods you previously avoided . With dental implants, your partials or dentures are firmly anchored to the jawbone, causing them to feel much more like natural teeth.

Natural tooth roots and dental implant posts are fixed firmly in your jawbone. When you chew, these tooth roots and posts stimulate the jawbone and prevent it from shrinking. You may have seen a person who looked prematurely old because their jawbone had shrunk after wearing floating dentures. Dental implants help preserve your jawbone and appearance.

The Success Rate of Dental Implants

After their healing period, the success rate of dental implants is between 94% and 98%. If you are a non-smoker with good oral hygiene, the percentage is closer to 98%.

Does the Procedure Hurt?

Dentures can cause bone loss, due to lack of stimulation.

The discomfort involved with receiving a dental implant is similar to that of having a cavity filled. It is performed with sedation or local anesthesia alone; patients generally experience little discomfort after the procedure.

How Long Will Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants become fixed to the jawbone. Though the life span of a dental implant will vary with each patient, many have lasted between 12 to 30 years. With good oral hygiene and regular cleanings, dental implants should last a lifetime. In contrast, the average life span of a traditional fixed bridge is between 10-15 years.

Bone Regeneration

A critical question in determining whether an implant can be placed is, "Is there enough bone to support the implant?" Fortunately, advanced bone regeneration techniques now make it possible to place many more implants than just 10 years ago.

Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implant treatment begins with an evaluation by Dr. Cassity who will determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure. 

For More Information

The following sites will provide you with more information on dental implants:

 

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