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Dental Implants in Rochester, NY, by Dr. Isaac Kuyunov

Implant-Supported Prostheses

Tooth loss can happen for many reasons. Often it is due to gum disease or tooth decay. It can also be a result of an injury or trauma to the tooth. If you have missing teeth, there are several different options available to you here at Dental Prosthodontics of Rochester, NY, including dental implants. Unlike removable dentures and non-implant supported bridges, dental implants provide a more permanent solution to the replacement of missing or damaged teeth.

Dr. Kuyunov providing dental implants to a Rochester, NY, patient.

What is a dental implant?

Dental implant with callouts to the various parts.

A dental implant is a type of metal post made of titanium or ceramic that acts as an anchor to support a dental prosthetic. The implant then forms a bond to the bone. After the area heals, a dental prosthetic is attached to the implant, which can be a tooth, bridge, or denture. The connection of an implant-supported dental crown or other prosthetic is often mediated through an intermediary structure called an abutment. Dental implants provide a more permanent solution to missing teeth, restore function, and give you the natural-looking smile that you deserve. 

Tooth Extractions and Implant Placement 

If the teeth to be extracted are still present, it may be possible to combine the extractions of teeth and placement of implants into one single visit. In this way, patient undergoes only one surgical session. This is why it is important to know about the condition of your teeth as early as possible. If during the extraction of teeth it is decided that it is better to postpone placement of implants for a better outcome, a bone replacement graft will be placed into the extraction sockets. This will keep the proper dimension of the bone for future implant placement. ​In this situation, we will provide you with temporary teeth to use until treatment is completed.

Who makes a good candidate for dental implants?

  • One or More Teeth are Missing – If you are missing teeth, you may want to consider dental implants. Missing teeth can lead to bone loss or can cause the neighboring teeth to shift. When teeth shift, they can cause structural issues, aesthetic problems, and more. 

  • A Previous Restoration or Prosthetic has Failed – When a previous dental restoration is no longer able to serve its purpose, it can cause pain and compromise the health of your remaining teeth. Dr. Kuyunov will determine if a dental implant is the best option for your situation.

  • Dental Trauma or Injury has Occured – If your tooth is severely fractured or broken due to trauma or injury, preserving your natural tooth may not be an option. If the tooth needs to be extracted, your natural root will no longer be present in your jawbone. The gap left from the extracted tooth can cause the surrounding teeth to be at risk for shifting, cracking, and more. A dental implant will help prevent any bone loss or negative effects caused by the missing tooth.

  • Your Removable Dentures have Become Loose – Although well-made removable dentures are a good solution for missing teeth, over time they can begin to lose their proper fit and start to move and shift when you talk or eat. This can cause you to feel uncomfortable socially and physically since this movement over time can cause gum and mouth pain. Missing teeth can also cause jawbone loss, especially as you age. Implant-supported dentures, which can be removable or fixed, can be a permanent solution to dentures.  

  • You Lack Confidence when You Smile – If you are feeling insecure about smiling spontaneously because of gaps caused by missing teeth, or dentures that do not look like natural teeth, dental implants can restore the naturally beautiful smile you once had. You may also be experiencing a lack of confidence due to a sunken face or lack of jaw definition that can happen due to missing teeth. Dental implants can give you the confidence to smile without feeling self-conscious.

  • Chewing Certain Types Food is Difficult – When you are missing teeth, it may be harder to eat foods you may have once enjoyed. Missing teeth can also result in not eating a well-balanced diet and can have a negative effect on your overall health. Dental implants can help you enjoy eating naturally again since they will close the gaps left by missing teeth.  

  • You've had a Tooth Extraction Due to an Infection – An infected tooth can be quite painful and cause a significant amount of discomfort. When you have a tooth infection, it is common for the infection to spread to its root. If your natural tooth is unable to be saved, a tooth extraction may be necessary. After extraction, there will be an empty space in the bone where the tooth was. This is a good opportunity to have a dental implant placed where the tooth once was.

Benefits and Advantages of Dental Implants

  • Improved Function – Implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth

  • More Self Confidence – Being able to smile without the worry of visible tooth loss can boost your confidence.

  • Better Chewing Function – Implants provide the freedom to eat your favorite foods again.

  • Bone Loss Preservation – Dental Implants help prevent bone loss in the jaw by stimulating the jawbone and preserving its structure.

  • Protects Integrity of Remaining Teeth – Implants can help maintain the position and alignment of remaining teeth.

  • Improved Speech – Speech and pronunciation that has been compromised by tooth lost can be restored.

  • Facial Structure Integrity – With dental implants, you will be able to maintain your natural facial features and avoid a sunken look that can happen when multiple teeth are missing.

  • Long-lasting Solution – Dental implants offer a more permanent solution to tooth loss.

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If you are considering dental implants in Rochester, NY, Dr. Kuyunov will perform a complete and careful examination of your jaw, teeth, mouth, and overall health to determine if implants are the best solution for your situation. Call us today at 585-471-5689 to schedule an appointment. 

Woman who is a Dental Implant patient smiling.
Senior man smiling showing his dental implants.

What do you need to be a good candidate?

Although most people are good candidates for dental implants, here are several factors that will determine if dental implants are a good option for you:

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  • Good Medical Health – Implants work best when you are in good health. Certain medical conditions, like uncontrolled diabetes, could keep a patient from healing properly, while others, such as a recent cardiac event will postpone surgery until a later date. People who take certain medications, such as steroids or drugs that suppress the immune system, may not be suitable candidates for implants, as well.

  • Healthy Gums – Patients who have untreated gum infections like gingivitis or periodontal disease would not be good candidates for dental implants. Periodontal treatment would be necessary before dental implants can be in place.

  • Sufficient Bone Density – For an implant to be supported, enough bone volume and density is necessary for anchoring the implant successfully. People who suffer from bone loss can still get dental implants, but an additional dental procedure called a bone graft may be necessary to rebuild your bone prior to receiving an implant.

  • No Use of Tobacco Products – Smoking and using other tobacco products can prevent healing in the mouth and can decrease the chances of a successful implant healing. We encourage patients to quit smoking to reduce the risk of a failed implant procedure, but also to improve their overall health, premature aging, and to reduce the risk of cancer.

  • A Commitment to Good Oral Hygiene – A good candidate for dental implants should have no infections or other dental problems. After receiving an implant, good oral hygiene like daily brushing and flossing, as well as routine follow-up dental visits are an important part of keeping your implants intact.

  • Minimal Tooth Grinding / Bruxism – Teeth-grinding and jaw clenching can place too much pressure on dental implants. Being fitted with a customized night guard by Dr. Kuyunov can help reduce unnecessary pressure on your teeth and jaw. Tooth grinding can also be caused by sleep apnea. We often recommend that you be tested for sleep apnea and be treated as necessary.  

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Let Dr. Kuyunov of Dental Prosthodontics of Rochester, NY help you regain the confidence and function of a full smile. Whether you need implant crowns, implant bridges, full-arch dental implants, or implant dentures, schedule a personalized, one-on-one consultation with Dr. Kuyunov. Call us today at 585-471-568 or email us by using the link below.

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