Please note: When requesting an appointment online, this is only a REQUEST. A member of our staff will contact you. 

Dental Implants Q & A

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are a modern and effective artificial tooth-replacement solution.

The implant is a small metal post that’s surgically inserted into your jawbone, where it fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration. Once fused, a dental implant functions just like the root portion of the rest of your natural teeth. This provides for a strong and sturdy foundation where Dr. Chirla can place a permanent crown, bridge, or dentures.

Because dental implants are so similar to your natural tooth roots, having an implant leaves you feeling just like your tooth was never missing in the first place.

Why should I get dental implants?

Missing teeth can leave dark holes in your smile, both cosmetically and medically. By filling in the empty spaces, dental implants correct a number of issues that result from not having all of your teeth. For example, dental implants can:

• Improve your ability to properly eat and speak
• Prevent bone loss in your jaw
• Decrease your risk of dental infections
• Prevent your natural teeth from shifting into the empty space
• Prevent jaw pain associated with misaligned teeth
• Prevent the muscles and tissues around the missing tooth from caving in

Dental implants are also incredibly easy to take care of. Because they’re functionally identical to your natural teeth, they require no special cleaning or hygienic tools. You just brush and floss them like the rest of your teeth.

How do I get dental implants?

Dr. Chirla partners with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to place dental implants. During your first appointment, the surgeon anesthetizes the tissue surrounding your missing tooth. Once you’re all numb, he makes an incision into your gum, drills a hole in your jaw, and inserts the implant into your bone socket. He then stitches up the incision site and sends you home.

You’ll come back for your second visit after the implant has fused with your jawbone, which takes anywhere between three and nine months. Dr. Chirla checks to see that the implant has fused properly, and then installs a restoration, like a crown, bridge, or dentures. You’ll leave the office with a pristine and functional smile that looks completely natural.

Start your journey towards a better smile today by scheduling a dental implant appointment with Dr. Chirla. You can call the office or book online.