What to Know Before Getting a Dental Implant - Willoughby Dental in Greenville

If you are missing one or several teeth, you have several options for restoring a healthy and beautiful smile. One such option is a dental implant, which is considered by many dentists to be the most long-lasting solution to a missing tooth.

Here, Dr. Matthew Warner of Willoughby Dental explains what you need to know about dental implants.

Dental implants replace the root of a tooth.

Other tooth replacements (e.g., dentures, bridges) only replace the crown of a tooth, which is the visible portion of a tooth that sits on top of the gums. On the other hand, dental implants include a titanium post or screw that is surgically inserted into the jawbone. The post acts as an anchor to an artificial tooth that sits on top of the gums. Because the post fuses with the surrounding jawbone, the tooth is very stable and secure. With dental implants, you can eat, speak and smile without worrying that your artificial teeth will slip out (which may be a concern with dentures). Dental implants also stimulate the jawbone, preventing it from deteriorating. This helps support the facial features for a normal appearance, and minimizes the risk of oral health issues.

The implant placement process takes longer than that of a bridge or denture.

Because dental implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone, the process to place them is more extensive than that of a bridge or denture. The first part of the dental implant placement process is performed by an implant dentist or oral surgeon, who creates an incision in the gums and an opening in the jawbone in which to place the post. In order to create a stable foundation, the post must fuse with the jawbone. This process, called osseointegration, can take approximately three to six months. Dentures and bridges are typically placed in the span of two weeks.

Dental implants can last a lifetime.

When properly placed and cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime. Implants should be brushed and flossed like natural teeth, and checked by your dentist every six months.

To learn more about dental implants or the other restorative dental treatments Dr. Warner offers, please schedule a personal consultation. Contact our Greenville office by calling (864) 546-4242 or emailing us today.

Dental Services

    
 
 
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   Karen Newcomb 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am a newer patient to Willoughby Dental. I called on a Thursday morning and asked if they could see me later that afternoon as I was in pain. The receptionist was extremely kind and friendly, as she always is, and was able to find a spot to fit me into the schedule at the end of the day. I was extremely grateful since it was a last minute phone call and I was in pain.

Dr. Willoughby was friendly, as always, and assessed my issue. He and his assistant were able to fix my tooth Ina short amount of time. After the novacaine wore off, I was no longer in pain.

I am very grateful that Willoughby Dental is a flexible practice and was able to get me in because I was in pain. I have had dentists in the past that, even though I was in pain, they were not at all flexible and would  not fit me into the schedule to fix my issue.

I highly recommend Willoughby Dental. Dr. Willoughby is professional, knowledgeable and friendly. He cares about his patients
  
 
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   Blake 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Warner is by far the best dentist I’ve ever been to, both in professionalism and skill. I’ve unfortunately dealt with some unique dental issues, yet you’d never know it thanks to the comfort and care he and his team provide at every visit. They make you feel genuinely appreciated as a patient. I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else!
  
 
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   William Yaeger 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had 6 month cleaning which was well done and refreshing as usual. Dr Warner’s patients always receive the best care which is why I have been a patient for many years and highly recommend him.
  
 
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   Patrick Hunter 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great service, pleasant staff and thorough care. Dr. Matt and his team are great. Been going here for years.
  
 
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   Edna Hollingsworth 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It was a pleasant experience. Your friendliness and professionalism made me comfortable to be there.
  
 
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   Jennifer Russo 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very detailed and thorough dentist and staff.
Total perfection with my tooth replacement.
Highly recommend this dental practice.