Dental Implants in Wauwatosa
Why Dental Implants?
Dental implants are used to replace a missing tooth and prevent common issues related to tooth loss such as shifting teeth, bone and gum loss, and other dental problems. When a tooth is missing, often the most natural way to replace it is by using a dental implant. This treatment option is a permanent solution for missing teeth, and is becoming the standard of care for tooth loss. Contact our Wauwatosa dentist to learn more. Call (414) 456-1091 today!
Why Choose A Dental Implant?
The process of dental implant placement usually takes two appointments. During your first appointment in Wauwatosa, Dr. McCue uses a CT scan to create a 3D image of your jaw, and select the best site for your dental implant.
Then, your mouth will be numbed and cleaned. A small opening is made in the gum, and the implant(s) is placed in the proper position. The gum is sutured, and you’ll be sent home with a temporary crown to protect it while it heals. During this time, your implant restoration will be built.
After the implant has healed and integrated with your gum and jaw, you’ll come back for your second appointment, and Dr. McCue will place your final implant restoration. You’ll leave our office with a beautiful, new replacement tooth.
- Dental implants bond to your jaw and gum tissue – A dental implant integrates with your gum and jaw through a process called “osseointegration”, strengthening and protecting the surrounding tissue.
- Durable and long-lasting – Dental implants can last 30 years or longer, with proper care, making them the most cost-effective choice for restoring a tooth.
- Natural look and feel – Dental implants are made specifically to match your natural teeth. They fit in seamlessly with the rest of your smile and they feel completely natural when you’re chewing, speaking, and smiling.
- No special care required – Brush and floss normally, and see Dr. McCue for your six-month teeth cleaning and oral exam. That’s all you have to do to keep your implant in great shape!
Types of Dental Implants
- Endosteal Implants – Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. They consist of a screw-shaped implant that is implanted directly into your gum and jaw tissue. Once it has been bonded in place, this implant is used to support a dental restoration such as a crown, a bridge, or a set of dentures. Endosteal implants strengthen the jaw bone, and allow for the natural restoration of your smile. They last 30+ years with proper care.
- “Mini” Implants” – Mini implants are a special type of endosteal implant. They are very small and thin, typically about half the size of a traditional endosteal implant, and are typically used to support a full-mouth implant-supported denture. Because of the small size of mini implants, the surgery is less invasive compared to traditional implants, and patients do not need as much healthy bone structure to undergo treatment.
- Subperiosteal Implants – Subperiosteal implants are made of a metal framework, which is surgically implanted above the jaw, but below the gums. Several posts stick out of the gums where the missing teeth used to be, allowing for the placement of dental crowns or other restorations. This type of implant can be used for those with a weak jaw bone structure since it isn’t attached directly to the bone. However, the surgery is very invasive and there is a high risk of complications compared to endosteal implants, so this type of implant is rarely used today.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Yes. Dental implants are very safe and extremely effective. The overall success rate of dental implant surgery is around 98%, which means there is a very low risk of major complications. The vast majority of dental implants are placed without any complications or problems.
If you feel uncomfortable about the process of having oral surgery for dental implants, we understand. The process may still seem intimidating, even if it’s quite safe. We offer sedation for patients who may be nervous about treatment. With sedation, you can relax in the dentist’s chair throughout your entire procedure, allowing you to stay calm and comfortable throughout your oral surgery. Call us today to learn more!
The Dental Implant Process
The process of dental implant placement usually takes two appointments. During your first appointment, Dr. McCue uses a CT scan to create a 3D image of your jaw, and select the best site for your dental implant.
Then, your mouth will be numbed and cleaned. A small opening is made in the gum, and the implant(s) is placed in the proper position. The gum is sutured, and you’ll be sent home with a temporary crown to protect it while it heals. During this time, your implant restoration will be built.
After the implant has healed and integrated with your gum and jaw, you’ll come back for your second appointment, and Dr. McCue will place your final implant restoration. You’ll leave our office in Wauwatosa with a beautiful, new replacement tooth.
Your Options for Implant Restoration in Wauwatosa
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
Frequently Asked Questions
How painful is getting a dental implant?
The thought of getting a dental implant can indeed trigger a sense of apprehension, primarily due to the perceived pain involved. However, in reality, the process is typically less painful than what most patients anticipate. At McCue Dental Health, Dr. Shaun McCue prioritizes your comfort and uses advanced techniques to minimize discomfort.
The procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area completely. This means you won’t feel any pain during the implant placement. Post-surgery, any discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medication and subsides within a few days. Rest assured, our team at McCue Dental Health will guide you through the entire process, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free experience.
How long does a dental implant last?
The longevity of a dental implant depends on several factors, including your overall oral health, lifestyle habits, and how well you maintain your implant. When properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a long-term investment in your oral health.
Regular dental check-ups at McCue Dental Health, proper oral hygiene practices at home, and a healthy lifestyle can contribute significantly to the lifespan of your dental implant. Dr. Shaun McCue will provide you with detailed post-procedure care instructions and ongoing support to ensure your dental implant serves you for many years to come.
How long do you go without teeth when getting implants?
The duration without teeth during the dental implant process varies based on individual circumstances. In some cases, a temporary tooth can be placed immediately after the implant placement, ensuring you never have to go without a tooth. This is often referred to as immediate loading.
In other situations, a healing period of a few months may be required before the final crown can be attached to the implant. During this time, a temporary denture or bridge can be used to fill the gap. Dr. Shaun McCue will discuss your options and create a personalized treatment plan to minimize the time you spend without a tooth.
When is it too late to get dental implants?
It’s never too late to improve your smile and oral health with dental implants. Whether you’ve recently lost a tooth or have been missing one for years, dental implants can be a viable solution. Age is not typically a limiting factor for dental implants. However, certain health conditions may affect your eligibility.
At McCue Dental Health, we conduct a comprehensive evaluation to assess your oral health and suitability for dental implants. Dr. Shaun McCue will consider your unique needs and circumstances to provide the most suitable treatment options. Regardless of how long you’ve been missing your teeth, we’re here to help restore your smile and confidence with dental implants.
Learn More About Dental Implants and Restoration
Whether you’re missing a single tooth, multiple teeth, or an entire arch of teeth, dental implants may be the right solution for you. With a dental implant and the right implant-supported restoration, you can restore your smile and get back to your normal, day-to-day life.
Get started by scheduling an appointment in Wauwatosa with Dr. McCue. At your appointment, he’ll perform a comprehensive oral exam, and help you understand if dental implants are the best choice for your particular needs. Contact us now at (414) 456-1091, or come to our office at 10625 West North Avenue, Suite 300, Wauwatosa, WI 53226.
