Pembroke Pines Orthodontist

Dental ImplantsPembroke Pines, FL

When it comes to replacing missing or damaged teeth, it is beneficial to find a natural-appearing and functional option. Dental implants can help to provide both of those benefits and more. There is no reason for patients to continue living while missing a tooth. Dental implants are an artificial tooth root, usually consisting of titanium, that can continue to stimulate the jawbone and support an artificial crown.

Dental implants are offered at Ortho Smiles in Pembroke Pines and in the surrounding area. With dental implants, you will be able to provide the stimulation the jawbone needs to prevent changes in the position of the teeth and appearance. Orthodontist, Dr. Gina Cozzarelli can use dental implants to help to restore a smile and functionality of a missing tooth.

If you are interested in dental implants or want to replace a missing tooth, call us at (954) 271-8073 to schedule an appointment.

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Benefits of dental implants

Unlike dentures, dental implants are not removable. However, dental implants are durable and much sturdier. By inserting dental implants into the jawbone, patients do not have to worry about the implant coming loose and falling out while eating, speaking or laughing. When it comes to replacing missing or infected teeth, patients always have concerns about the appearance.

We can help patients achieve a natural-looking smile with dental implants by customizing the implant to fit the empty socket properly. The implant will then support the Benefits of dental implants include:

  • Sturdy artificial tooth root that does not fall out
  • No need to drastically change an oral hygiene routine
  • Ability to continue eating favorite foods
  • Durable support for a dental crown that will blend in with surrounding teeth
  • Stimulation to the jaw to prevent the process of resorption
  • Long-lasting tooth replacement option
  • Customized replacement option
  • As an orthodontist, Dr. Gina Cozzarelli will help to ensure the dental implant is a proper fit for the patient’s mouth.

    How a dental implant works

    To understand how a dental implant works, it helps to understand the layers of a tooth. A tooth consists of an outer layer known as the enamel. Beneath this protective shell is the dentin, which houses the dental pulp of the tooth. The dental pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that will become incredibly painful when exposed. To help supply the tooth with the calcium it needs, the roots of the tooth are attached to the jawbone.

    By stimulating the jawbone, the body knows to ensure there is enough calcium in that area. Without the proper stimulation from the tooth, the body will absorb the calcium from that area in a process known as resorption. This process can result in changes to the structure of the face as the body leeches calcium from the body.

    The titanium root of a dental implant can stimulate the jawbone to prevent this and help keep the facial structure from changing. On top of that, the implant will prevent other teeth from moving to fill in the gap left after the missing tooth.

    The Dental implant process

    While the process for the dental implant and crown can take several months or longer, the patient will benefit from a sturdy and lasting replacement option. There are three parts to a dental implant such as the dental implant itself, the abutment and the crown. The implant process will include preparing the mouth, placing the implant and then allowing time for the implant to bond with the jaw.

    Preparing the mouth

    Once we determine the patient is a candidate for a dental implant, we will prepare the patient. We will go over everything during consultation and answer any questions the patient has. If the patient still has an infected or damaged tooth, it will need to be removed first. We will then prepare the socket and begin the procedure.

    Placing the dental implant

    Placing the dental implant will involve creating an incision in the gums of the empty socket. We will then place the implant into the jawbone, similar to placing a screw. The patient will be numbed and asleep during this procedure. Once we insert the dental implant, we will clean up the patient’s mouth close up any openings and wake the patient up.

    Allowing time for the implant to bond with the jaw

    The dental implant will need to bond with the jaw in a process known as osseointegration. This process can take anywhere from several months to longer, depending on the patient’s health and other factors. Once the implant bonds with the jawbone, the patient can then get an abutment and customized crown.

    This crown will blend in with surrounding teeth to provide a natural appearance. Along with that, the patient will be able to eat their favorite foods without too much worry.

    Call us at (954) 271-8073 to see if dental implants are the solution for you or to schedule a consultation today.

    Dr. Cozzarelli is a Member of AAO, ADA, and FDA:

    Member of American Association of Orthodontists Member of American Dental Association Member of Florida Dental Association