Our Services / Implants

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are metal posts that replace your tooth roots. They’re made of titanium and are inserted into your jaw during a quick, outpatient procedure. 

Following placement, the implants integrate with your natural bone structure, providing a firm foundation for crowns, a bridge, or snap-on dentures.

Dental implants are stronger and longer-lasting than dentures. With routine checkups and optimal oral hygiene, they often last a lifetime.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants offer a variety of benefits, including:

• Easier biting, chewing, and speaking
• Improved confidence
• Durability
• Convenience
• More defined facial structure

Dental implants can also improve your oral health. By replacing permanent teeth lost to trauma or decay, you can reduce the risk of gum recession, bone loss, and persistent bad breath (halitosis).

Can anyone get dental implants?

To get dental implants, you need healthy gums and enough jaw to support the titanium posts. If Dr. Ovsepian detects any potential issues, he might recommend deep cleaning or a bone graft before moving forward.

During your first appointment, let Dr. Ovsepian know if you have a chronic health problem like kidney disease or diabetes. These and other issues may increase the risk of surgical complications, so it’s important they’re stable and cared for.

What does getting dental implants involve?

At Plenty O’Smiles, getting dental implants takes three appointments spaced over several months.

First visit

If Dr. Ovsepian determines you’re a candidate for implants, he administers a local anesthetic and places a series of posts into your jaw during an outpatient procedure. Following implant placement, he prescribes pain medication and antibiotics and provides at-home care instructions.

Second visit

A few months later, when the implants finish integrating with your natural bone, you return to the office. Dr. Ovsepian takes digital impressions of your mouth and sends them to a dental laboratory. Technicians at the lab design and manufacture your custom dental restoration. 

Third visit

When the team receives your restoration, you visit Plenty O’ Smiles for the final time. Dr. Ovsepian administers a local anesthetic and attaches your restoration to the implants. Then, he polishes your implants and provides care instructions.

How do I take care of dental implants?

Taking care of dental implants is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Dr. Ovsepian and the team recommend:

• Brushing your teeth twice daily
• Flossing before going to bed
• Avoiding bad habits like opening packaging with your teeth
• Visiting Plenty O’ Smiles every six months for an exam
• Protecting your implants from damage by wearing a mouthguard

If you’d like to explore the benefits of dental implants, make an appointment at Plenty O’ Smiles by calling the office today or scheduling online.