Dental ImplantsAn Overview
If you have missing teeth or are faced with the prospect of losing your teeth, you may be a candidate for dental implants. Dr. Shawna Hoffert completed a postgraduate residency program in implant dentistry. This enables us to provide complete care for dental implants from the surgical placement to the cosmetic restoration in our comfortable Asheville dentist office.
Dr. Hoffert is a member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID) and completed an intensive 12 month residency in implant dentistry. Her experience and training make her uniquely qualified dentist for placing dental implants.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth used to replace a missing tooth. A dental implant is a three part system that mimics the complete structure of a natural tooth. Implants are a highly successful and durable dental restoration considered the “gold-standard” in tooth replacement. Dental implants look and function like your natural teeth, providing unprecedented support and stability of the jaw and the health and alignment of your existing natural teeth.
Missing teeth increase a patient’s risk of oral disease, additional tooth loss, and bone recession in the jaw. Dental implants help prevent these secondary conditions and promote healthier, more comfortable smiles.
Parts of A Dental Implant
The Implant– The implant post is made of medical grade titanium and looks like a small metal screw. The implant is surgically implanted into the jaw bone, typically in a healthy root socket. Once the implant has been placed it is left to heal for up to 6 months. During this time the dental implant begins to fuse with the jaw bone tissue, creating a comfortable and secure bond.
The Abutment– Once the implant has healed Dr. Hoffert attaches a small metal abutment to the implant. The abutment protrudes from the gum line and acts as an anchor for the final dental restoration. The abutment is not visible once the implant procedure is fully complete.
The Restoration– A custom dental crown, bridge or denture will be designed to enhance the appearance and restore the function of your smile.. Using modern dental materials, dental restorations are color matched and shaped to blend seamlessly with your adjacent teeth. The final restoration is fit to the abutment and implant for a permanent solution to replacing missing teeth.
After a lifelong struggle with weak teeth that could never be whitened and were increasingly crooked, Dr. Hoffert and her team excelled! I am so happy with my new smile! It's a pleasure to smile and not feel that embarrassment to show my teeth or to bear the brunt of…P.B.
Great treatment experience as usual - superstar team! Thank you!A.C.
Outstanding. Very impressed with competence level. Will bring in rest of family.J.C.
Dr. Hoffert is extremely careful & focused on patient comfort. I highly recommend her & Red Maple Dental. The staff is also friendly and goes the extra mile.H. B.
I am "over the moon" impressed with the quality of service at Red Maple Dental. As a new patient I have never been treated with such astounding care. Dr. Hoffert is incredibly talented & a wonderful dentist! Thanks for everythingC. S.
I have feared dentists for most of my life. Now I tell new residents where I live that I have never been hurt here. I am happy I can say this with Dr. Hoffert - It took courage, caring, and know how to do that. I am grateful!A.J.
Excellent Care! Dr. Hoffert was very kind, patient, and considerate during my visit. The Dental Assistant was as well. They did an excellent job with my crown and the shots did not hurt at all.H. D.
Dental Implants What to Expect
Dr. Hoffert will use digital technology to create a personalized treatment plan for placing your dental implants or securing a dental bridge or denture. We will discuss all phases of treatment with you and create a schedule that meets your oral health needs. There are several key parts of treatment for all types of dental implants:
- Implantation – The dental implant is a replacement tooth root, generally made of titanium, that is anchored into the bone. Placement of the implant is performed in our office, under local anesthesia. In some cases, Dr. Hoffert will place the final prosthetic on the implant during the implantation procedure. Other times, she will place a temporary restoration on the implant. It usually takes 3 to 6 months for the implant to become fully integrated with the bone.
- Implant Restoration – After the healing process is complete, Dr. Hoffert will uncover the implant and attach the dental crown, bridge or denture. Your restoration will look and function the same as natural teeth. You will be able to brush and floss your teeth normally. Routine preventive care visits with Dr. Hoffert will ensure the long term health and function of the dental implant.
Maintenance and Care of Dental Implants
Dental implants can be cared for the same way you care for your natural teeth. Implants should be brushed and flossed at least twice a day along with the rest of your smile. Patients with dental implants should visit the dentist at least twice a year for routine checkups and may consider visiting more frequently to ensure lasting success of their implant.