Dental implants eliminate many of the problems of dentures and bridges, and they look and feel just like your natural teeth. Dr. Brisman is skilled in the dental implant procedure, so Greenwich Village, NY, patients can feel confident in their care from start to finish.

Implants

by David L. Brisman, DMD

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are devices that can be used to replace a tooth that's lost. They're designed to look, feel and function just like your own natural teeth.

Are dental implants better than dentures or bridges?

Yes; dental implants are designed to work just like a natural tooth, so your bite pattern remains just the same as it was before you lost your tooth. They also provide the same type of support for your neighboring teeth and your mouth and facial structure, preventing additional tooth loss down the road. And of course, there's no danger of sore spots or embarrassing slippage, and they don't transfer force to neighboring teeth the way a bridge can.

How is the implant put in place?

The dental implant procedure will be completed over the course of several visits. During the first visit, a special titanium post will be inserted into the gum and attached to the bone that supports your teeth. The post will remain in place for several weeks, during which time it will naturally fuse with your bone and become as strong and stable as a natural tooth root. While the post is in place, you may be given a temporary denture or bridge to protect the area and enable your mouth to function normally. At the next visit, a special device called an abutment will be attached to the post and an impression will be made for the crown. At the final visit, the crown will be attached to the abutment and gently shaped for the best fit possible.

How do I care for an implant?

You care for an implant the same way you care for your natural teeth – with regular brushing, flossing and dental visits to ensure the gum surrounding the implant is in good health.