Dental Implants in Birmingham, AL

Dental implants are titanium posts that replace missing tooth roots. They serve as anchors for an artificial tooth or a set of teeth. The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone and gum tissue. 

After the site has healed, an abutment is attached to the implant. The abutment is a post that protrudes from the gum line. Once the implant and abutment have healed, our dentist in Birmingham, AL at AC Dentistry can attach the artificial tooth or teeth to the abutment.

How Do Implants Work?

Dental implants are titanium posts designed to resemble tooth roots. They are surgically implanted into the jawbone, where they serve as a permanent anchor for replacement teeth. Implants help preserve bone, reducing the risk of bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing. The implant acts as an artificial tooth root, providing a sturdy foundation for prosthetic teeth.

Types of Implants

Endosteal Implant

The endosteal implant is the most common type of dental implant and is placed in the jaw. It is usually shaped like a screw and surgically placed into the jawbone. 

Subperiosteal Implant

A subperiosteal implant is a type of dental implant that is placed under the gum but on top of the jawbone.

Zygomatic Implant

Zygomatic implants are a type of implant that is typically utilized when there is not enough bone mass in the jaw. To place a zygomatic implant, the oral surgeon will make a post to connect the implant to the zygomatic bone, located in the cheek.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants are permanent tooth replacements. Unlike dentures, they’re designed to last for years and even a lifetime. They’re also more comfortable than even the best dentures. They don’t require any special maintenance and they’re easier to clean than real teeth.

Dental implants have a success rate of about 98%, which is very high for any type of surgery. With proper care, you can expect your dental implants to last for years, if not a lifetime.

How Are Dental Implants Placed?

Dental implants can be surgically placed by an oral surgeon or periodontist. An oral surgeon may use sedation or general anesthesia while placing the implants. During the procedure, the small titanium post is placed into the jaw bone. The implant will fuse with the jaw bone over the next several months in a process called osseointegration. A dental restoration like a bridge or crown will then be secured to the implant once it has fully fused with the jaw bone.

How Do I Care for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are permanent tooth replacements. Just like your natural teeth, your dental implants need to be cared for properly to keep them healthy. Brushing twice a day and flossing once daily will increase the longevity of your dental implants. While dental implants don’t decay, you still need to care for them, just like natural teeth.

Visit AC Dentistry at 7350 Cahaba Valley Rd. #106, Birmingham, AL 35242, or call (205) 533-6799 to discover more about the benefits of dental implants.