What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants replace the entire tooth structure, not just the part you see when you smile. A small titanium post is placed into your jawbone, acting as an artificial root. Over time, your bone fuses with the implant, creating a stable foundation. Once healing is complete, we attach a custom crown that matches your natural teeth in shape, color, and function.
Unlike dentures that sit on your gums or bridges that rely on neighboring teeth for support, implants stand on their own. They don’t slip when you talk or eat, and they don’t require special adhesives or nightly removal. For most patients, this means getting back to normal life without constantly thinking about their teeth.
Who Can Get Dental Implants?
Most adults who are missing one or more teeth can benefit from implants, but a few factors help determine if you’re a good candidate. Healthy gums are essential, as they support the healing process. You’ll also need enough jawbone to hold the implant securely. If bone loss has occurred over time, we can discuss options like bone grafting to build up the area before placement.
Your overall health matters, too. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or habits like smoking can affect healing, so we’ll review your medical history and talk through any concerns. Daily oral care is another key piece. Implants require the same attention as natural teeth: brushing, flossing, and regular checkups. During your consultation, we’ll assess your situation and give you honest answers about what to expect.
The Dental Implants Process
Getting dental implants in Philadelphia involves a few stages, but each one is designed to give you the best long-term results. Here’s how it typically works:
Initial Consultation
We start by evaluating your oral health and discussing your goals. Using 3D imaging and the iTero Digital Scanner, we create a detailed map of your jaw to plan the implant placement with precision.
Implant Placement
During a minor surgical procedure, we place the titanium post into your jawbone. This step is done with care and attention to your comfort. Most patients report that the process is easier than they expected.
Healing and Integration
Your jawbone needs time to fuse with the implant, a process called osseointegration. This can take several months, but it’s what makes implants so strong and stable.
Crown Placement
Once healing is complete, we attach a custom-made crown that blends seamlessly with your smile. The result is a tooth that feels natural and functions just like the ones you were born with.
Throughout the process, our team keeps you informed and answers any questions that come up. There’s no rushing, and you’re never left guessing about what happens next.
Why Choose Implants Over Other Options?
Dentures and bridges have been around for years, and they work well for some people. But implants offer advantages that other tooth replacement options can’t match.
Implants don’t require altering healthy teeth. Bridges, on the other hand, often involve grinding down adjacent teeth to create support. Implants also help preserve your jawbone. When a tooth is missing, the bone in that area begins to shrink over time. An implant stimulates the bone just like a natural root, keeping it strong and healthy.
For patients tired of dentures that slip or shift, implants provide stability. You can eat what you want without worrying about your teeth moving around. Biting into an apple, chewing steak, or enjoying corn on the cob all become possible again.
What to Expect at Our Office
From the moment you walk in, you’ll notice a difference. Our team greets you by name and takes time to understand your concerns. Dr. Anita Malici and the rest of our doctors explain each step clearly, so you know exactly what’s happening and why.
We use tools like 3D imaging and Overjet AI to plan your treatment down to the smallest detail. The iTero Digital Scanner captures precise impressions without the mess of traditional molds. If gum treatment is needed, our LANAP laser allows for gentler care and faster healing.
But technology is only part of the story. What really matters is how you feel during your visit. You’re kept comfortable, questions are answered without making you feel rushed, and decisions are made together. This is your treatment, and you’re in control.
Caring for Your Implants
Once your implants are in place, taking care of them is straightforward. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and keep up with your regular dental checkups. Implants can’t get cavities, but the gum tissue around them still needs attention. Good oral hygiene and routine visits help your implants last for decades.
Get Started Today
If missing teeth are holding you back from enjoying food, conversation, or just feeling like yourself, dental implants in Philadelphia could be the solution you’ve been looking for. At Matarazzo and Milici Group of Navy Yard, PA, we make the process clear, comfortable, and tailored to your needs. Call us today to schedule your consultation and find out if implants are right for you.