Did you lose a tooth? Have you worn dentures for some time but want a change? Dental implants can replace one or more missing teeth. Dr. Hoard will prepare your entire treatment plan and offer a range of other tooth replacements. Dr. Stephen Hoard offers comprehensive dental implant treatment for patients with missing teeth in New Bern, NC
He works with a local periodontist to perform oral surgery to place the dental implant. Then, he performs the implant restoration in our New Bern, NC, dentist’s office. Dental implants are a restorative dentistry procedure Dr. Hoard provides to his patients in Bern, North Carolina.
What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants can be a convenient and durable solution for your missing teeth. They are used to replace a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. The dental implant, is an artificial root placed in the bone to hold a replacement tooth (dental crown), bridge, or denture.
During your first visit, Dr. Hoard will examine your teeth, gum, and bone structure to determine if dental implants are right for you. Traditionally, patients must have a substantial amount of healthy jaw bone structure to receive dental implants.
During your consultation, Dr. Hoard will discuss your options and find a replacement that suits your needs.
Treatment with Dental Implants in New Bern, NC
Once you are determined to be a candidate for dental implants, Dr. Hoard will work up a personalized treatment plan. Dr. Hoard takes a multidisciplinary approach to implant dentistry. Working with local periodontist Dr. Jeffry Thomas and orthodontist Dr. Todd Rankin, Dr. Hoard can achieve predictable results.
In most cases, Dr. Thomas will place the implant, which is left to heal over 3 – 6 months. In the case of a single tooth replacement, a dental crown will be fabricated at a dental laboratory to Dr. Hoard’s exact specifications. If you are replacing several missing teeth, a dental bridge, partial or full denture may be used to replace teeth.
When the dental implant has integrated into the bone, the gum tissue covering the post will be removed to expose the new root. The restoration will be secured to the artificial root and checked for a comfortable fit.
The “All on Four” Implant Solution
For many denture wearers or patients facing the prospect of losing all their teeth, an implant denture is a breakthrough treatment. Just like a traditional denture, an implant denture will replace all of the missing teeth. However, the implant denture is secured with just a few strategically placed dental implants to secure the denture in place.
Dental Implants FAQs
Learn more about dental implants in our New Bern, NC office with answers to these common questions:
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are titanium post that is surgically attached to the jawbone. Dental implants mimic your natural tooth root, making it a firm foundation for a denture, dental bridge, or dental crown. Dr. Hoard will is an experienced dentist who is committed to providing comprehensive, high-quality dental care to each of his patients.
Dr. Hoard is an experienced dentist who is committed to providing comprehensive, high-quality dental care to each of his patients. It is important to find a trusted, experienced dentist when it comes to finding a tooth replacement option that is right for your smile.
What is the procedure like for dental implants?
Restorative dentist Dr. Hoard will coordinate treatment with a local surgeon who will skillfully attach your dental implants. Over 3 to 6 months, your dental implants will integrate and heal into the jawbone. After the dental implants heal, Dr. Hoard will carefully attach your chosen restoration.
For single missing teeth, Dr. Hoard will attach a dental crown. Dental crowns provide a natural looking, durable restoration for your missing teeth. For multiple missing teeth, Dr. Hoard may attach a dental bridge or denture, depending on the number of teeth you’re missing and their location.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
To receive dental implants, you must have an adequate amount of healthy jaw bone structure. During your consultation, Dr. Hoard will perform a comprehensive exam to determine if dental implants suit you. If dental implants are not the right for you, Dr. Hoard offers other options to help restore your smile.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care and maintenance, your dental implants can last 10 – 20 years or more. It is important to visit our New Bern dental office twice a year for preventive care visits. Practicing proper oral hygiene and regularly visiting our office may help improve the longevity of your dental implants.
What is the cost of dental implants?
Dental implants tend to be more expensive than other methods of tooth replacement, however, they provide unmatched strength and durability. It is reasonable to expect a dental implant to last for 10 – 20 years. Dental implants are more favorable than bridgework because adjacent teeth aren’t compromised.
We work closely with each patient to educate them on their options and help them make the best decision. Our office does offer financing for elective procedures through CareCredit, with low, monthly payments to make paying for dental implants manageable.
Do dental implants stain?
Dental implants do not typically stain, as the material used for them does not have the same porous surface that natural teeth have. However, it is possible for dental implants to become discolored over time due to certain foods and beverages, medications, or any other substances that may come in contact with the implant over time.
In order to keep your dental implant looking its best, you should avoid exposing them to staining agents and always maintain good oral hygiene.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
The ideal candidate for a dental implant is missing one or more teeth and is otherwise in good health with good supporting bone structure. Teeth may be lost as a result of trauma, gum disease, tooth decay or other reasons.
To determine if you are a candidate for dental implants, Dr. Hoard will perform a comprehensive evaluation. You must be committed to excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits to ensure the long-term success of dental implants.
Do you need to replace missing teeth?
Replacing missing teeth is extremely important. Once a tooth is lost, the bone begins to deteriorate. Also, the gum tissue is exposed and more prone to gum disease. Adjacent teeth may shift, causing problems with alignment and in some cases leading to TMJ disorders. While there are a number of excellent options for replacing missing teeth, none match the long term success of dental implants.
Are dental implants noticeable or visible in the mouth?
Dental implants are generally meant to be subtle and not easily noticeable in the mouth. Dentists and oral surgeons design dental implants to look and function like natural teeth. Moreover, they tailor the size, shape, and color of a dental implant to match your existing teeth for a natural look.
However, in some cases, the implant may be noticeable. For instance, if the surrounding gum tissue is not properly contoured, or if there is a noticeable gap between the implant and the adjacent teeth.
Are Denture Implants Right For You?
To be a candidate for implant dentures, you must have enough bone structure to support the implants and be in overall good health. Sometimes, an existing denture can be converted into an implant denture.
Contact us for a consultation to learn about your best treatment options. Call us at 252-507-0373 or schedule an appointment online.