What Are Dental Implants?
A natural tooth consists of a root and a crown. If you compare natural teeth to implant-supported replacement teeth, you’ll see they have the same basic parts. Both have a crown (the visible part used to chew food). Both have a root that holds the tooth securely under the gum and is anchored into the jaw. The difference is that the implant is made of titanium – the same time-tested material used by surgeons for artificial joints. When you lose a tooth, you lose both the root and the crown. To replace the tooth, the surgeon first replaces the root with a small dental implant.
Time is allowed for bone to heal and grow around the dental implant. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. A support post (abutment) is then placed on the implant and a new replacement tooth (crown) is placed on top of the abutment. In many cases a temporary replacement tooth can be attached to the implant immediately after it is placed. If all of your teeth are missing, a variety of treatment options are available to support the replacement teeth.
Do You Need Replacement Teeth?
“Don’t be afraid to Smile.”
For years I’d felt like a part of my body was missing — because my teeth were. My dentist told me that dental implants would make me feel and look a lot better. OK, I said. Now, I’m thrilled. I can smile, eat anything, and enjoy a good laugh with my friends.
Surgical Advances
Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Nichols is able to place single stage implants. These implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of six weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed. There are even situations where the implant can be placed at the same time as the tooth extraction – further minimizing your number of surgical procedures.
Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a restorative dentist. Dr. Nichols performs the actual implant surgery, initial tooth extractions, and bone grafting if necessary. The restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.
Oral & Facial Surgery of Mississippi
5 out of 5 stars based on 7 Dental Implants reviews.
Patient Review from Gloria M
Dr. Nichols is very professional, caring and provides excellent care. The members of his staff provide the best support, encouragement and loving care during every visit and procedure. I am thankful for the overall services they have given to me in my dental care. They are the “BEST”!
- Gloria M
5 out of 5 stars by Gloria M on
Patient Review from Kara D
I am very pleased with my experience and would recommend everyone to go see Dr. Nichols.
- Kara D
5 out of 5 stars by Kara D on
Patient Review from Janet C
Loved Dr. Nichols and his wonderful staff! He spent so much time with me answering my questions and concerns and the staff was equally as caring. I would absolutely recommend this office to anyone needing an outstanding oral and facial surgeon!
- Janet C
5 out of 5 stars by Janet C on
Patient Review from Bettie. J
A+, would Dr. Nichols to everyone. He did a great job.
- Bettie. J
5 out of 5 stars by Bettie. J on
Patient Review from Barbara H
I would recommend Dr. Nichols to anyone !!!
- Barbara H
5 out of 5 stars by Barbara H on
Patient Review from Marvin V
Has been a pleasure to be a patient of Oral and facial surgery of Mississippi. If any future procedure is needed I will come back.
- Marvin V
5 out of 5 stars by Marvin V on
Patient Review from Patricia B
Overall good experience!
- Patricia B
5 out of 5 stars by Patricia B on