Some people have small gaps between their teeth, and the result is nothing more than a cosmetic problem. However, gaps which result from tooth extraction cause bone loss, serious appearance problems, and reduced oral function. Dental implants from The Scarsdale Dentist in the Westchester area solve those issues. A highly trained dentist and member of the International Congress of Oral Impllantologists, Dr. Jeffrey Pike can advise you on these state-of-the-art tooth replacements and whether they could restore your smile appearance and function. Chances are they can!

What is a dental implant?

The single-tooth implant is composed of a titanium screw, a metal alloy post, and an all-porcelain crown. Dr. Pike inserts the implant screw into healthy jaw bone during an in-office surgery. The best-qualified candidates have "passed" an oral exam and X-ray imaging to see if they have adequate bone to support the dental implant.

After the placement procedure, the patient returns home for an extensive period of healing. During this time, the jaw bone bonds to the titanium implant through osseointegration. This process happens only with titanium metal, and it's responsible for the high success and retention rates of dental implants (about 95 percent) as documented by the Institute for Dental Implant Awareness and other research entities.

When the site has healed sufficiently, Dr. Pike can re-open it and finish the implant with the post and crown. Continued biting and chewing on the new prosthetic strengthens jaw bone density and helps retain its size.

All-on-4

Dental implants treat extensive tooth loss, too. Dr. Pike employs a procedure called All-on-4 in which a full denture is supported by four implants secured at load-bearing angles in the patient's jaw. Special three-dimensional imaging allows for precise placement of the devices. The dentist can place a full denture on these innovative devices immediately.

Implant care

Expect it to be as easy as brushing twice daily and carefully flossing. Additionally, see Dr. Pike semi-annually for your routine exam and hygienic cleaning. Good oral hygiene is imperative to keep implant sites healthy. While these artificial teeth cannot get cavities, they can develop something similar to gum disease (peri-implantitis) if the patient neglects oral hygiene or smokes. Tobacco contains toxins which deteriorate gums and bone.

Find out more in Westchester

You can close the gaps in your smile with something that resembles your natural teeth. Contact The Scarsdale Dentist in Westchester today to arrange a dental implant consultation. You definitely can trust Dr. Pike's expertise and experience. Call (914) 725-0707.