Dental Implants Restore Confidence and Stability to Your Smile

The loss of one or more teeth can compromise the functionality of your smile, and may be a source of embarrassment for some patients. If you are looking for a long-term solution for your missing teeth, Dr. Jeffrey S. Kearney offers dental implants at his Cary, NC, dental practice. He has true expertise in dental implants, including a fellowship with the International Congress of Implantology (ICOI), and eight years of dental implant placement experience. Contact Dr. Kearney today to start your path toward a beautiful, stable smile.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are titanium posts that Dr. Kearney strategically places within the jaw. Each post mimics the function of a natural tooth root and provides a stable anchor for your restorations. Patients may receive a single implant or multiple implants depending on the number of teeth they need to replace. Implants can be restored using dentures, dental crowns, and dental bridges (partial dentures).

Dr. Kearney begins dental implant surgery by administering a local anesthetic. Nitrous oxide is also available, if needed. An incision is made in the gums, and a pilot hole is drilled into the jawbone. The implant is inserted, and the gums are stitched closed to facilitate the fusion of the implant and the jawbone over the next three to six months. Once haling is complete, you will return for a second surgery. Another incision in the gums exposes the implant, and an abutment is attached, which will serve as the point of connection with your restorations. The gums are stitched closed around the abutment. Once the gums have healed, we can begin crafting your custom restorations.

What Are the Benefits?

Dental implants offer a multitude of benefits, including:

• Eliminated risk of dentures slipping when speaking or eating.
• Improved articulation while speaking.
• Preservation of the alignment of surrounding teeth.
• Retention of bone mass in the jaw. The jaw will lose bone mass if missing teeth are not promptly addressed.

Candidates for Dental Implants

To receive implants, patients should have a strong jaw structure in which the implants can be placed. If a patient has lost significant bone mass, Dr. Kearney may refer them to an oral surgeon who can provide a bone graft. Non-smokers make the best candidates for dental implants, because smoking compromises the capacity of the bones to heal. Overall, patients should be in excellent oral health before undergoing dental implant surgery. If you are suffering with gum disease or other issues, they will have to be addressed before dental implants are placed.

Contact Us Today

If you are suffering with a compromised smile, contact our office today and request a consultation. Dr. Kearney will take ample time to explain this procedure, determine if you are a candidate, and recommend the precise number of implants and restorations needed to restore the full functionality of your smile. We look forward to helping you experience all the benefits of a complete and healthy smile.