Dental Implants Specialist

Lake Success Dental Care

Dentists located in New Hyde Park, NY

Dental implants replace lost teeth to improve patient bite, provide the ability to chew and eat, to smile, and to increase or improve self-confidence. The passionate doctors at Lake Success Dental Care, located in New Hyde Park, New York, have extensive experience in the surgical placement of dental implants and take great pride in improving the health and confidence of patients.

Dental Implants Q & A

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a natural-looking false tooth implanted into the bone and tissue of the jaw, much like a real tooth. Dental implants consist of a titanium post, a connector (called an abutment), and a crown, to replace lost or congenitally missing teeth to restore full functionality.

What options exist besides dental implants?

There are several alternative options, including:

  • A bridge, which is cemented to healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth/teeth to functionally replace the missing tooth
  • A partial, which can replace the missing tooth functionally but is removable and generally more visible
  • Dentures, which replace all upper or lower teeth but are generally difficult to adjust to, less natural in appearance, and often unstable
  • Simply missing a tooth or teeth without replacement

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants are permanent. Unlike most other options available, implants look and feel natural. Additionally, the implant functions like the root of a tooth, keeping the jaw bone and tissue healthy and preventing the receding of bone and tissue that generally occurs over time when a tooth is lost. They can also function as a space holder, preventing movement of other teeth that a space can allow. Finally, dental implants can prevent changes in bite and TMJ, and greatly improve self-confidence.

What does the process look like?

The process is customized for each patient depending on the results of their physical exam and x-rays. Some patients need work, such as a bone graft or orthodontic treatment, before the implant can be placed. Once the implant is placed, the tissue is sutured closed and the patient is given 4-6 months to allow bone to grow around and anchor the implant. Once the implant is anchored in bone, a small incision is made, an abutment is attached, and impressions are taken. The crown is made in a lab, using the impressions taken, and cemented a few days to a few weeks later.

Is the surgery painful?

Anesthetic (and sometimes general anesthesia) is used during the procedure to ensure patients are comfortable. Most patients experience some soreness in the days following their implant surgery but find that the discomfort is tolerable with over-the-counter or prescription pain medications.