Dental implants in South Jersey

For many people, missing teeth present a mostly cosmetic problem. This is a fair concern: Missing teeth carry a stigma, and people with missing teeth may find themselves unfairly judged in many social settings.

Unfortunately, the problem of missing teeth goes beyond the cosmetic issue. Missing teeth put additional stress on your remaining teeth and can lead to damage, including fractures and even further tooth loss. When you are missing teeth, you may find it difficult or even painful to enjoy the fresh, healthy foods you need for proper nutrition and nourishment.

Even more concerning, one or more missing teeth can eventually lead to significant bone loss in your jaw as the tissue becomes atrophied from lack of use. Over time, this diminishing bone can lead to visible changes in your face and cause you to appear prematurely aged.

Dental implants will stop this process in its tracks, something that even dentures and partials cannot do.

Most healthy adults are eligible for dental implants. Dr. Lee will examine you and review your health history to see if you are a good fit for the treatment. Some health conditions change the effectiveness of the implants.

When you visit our office to discuss dental implants, we will ask you a number of questions about your health history. These questions are important to help us determine whether dental implants are the right option for you. Don’t worry – even if you do have a health concern, we are likely to still be able to work with you. We just need to know about it so that we can account for it and take any necessary precautions.

• you are missing one or more teeth
• your speech or eating are affected by your missing teeth
• you are an adult and therefore have fully developed jaw
• removable prosthesis is not for you
• your oral health is generally healthy
• you are healthy and capable of healing

Prior to the actual implant visit, we will examine your gums, jaws and teeth including x-rays and making models of your teeth to create a personalized treatment plan by Dr. Lee.

Because the implant is attached directly to your jaw, we need to know the condition of your bone. If necessary, you could be a candidate for grafts and other procedures to build up your jaw bone.

A small titanium posts is placed in the area of missing tooth.

The implant area will be left undisturbed to heal during 2-3 months while the implant integrates with surrounding bone. Once you have healed sufficiently, an impression is taken of the implant for a local dental lab artist to custom make the crown. Once the permanent crown has returned from the dental lab, you will return to our office to have it placed. The fit and appearance will be checked, and your implant will be complete.

For more information about dental implants or to schedule an appointment, please call our practice today.

There are numerous options of how implants can be used to replace and restore your smile. Call Dr. Lee to day to schedule a consultation.