Dental Implants - Astoria

Master Dental

General Dentist & Cosmetic Dentistry located in Astoria, NY

If you’re missing some or all of your permanent teeth, dental implants can restore your smile and help you chew, speak, and bite more confidently. General dentist Konstantine Malafis, DDS, at Master Dental in Astoria, Queens, regularly uses dental implants to improve patients’ oral health and well-being. Whether you’re tired of wearing dentures or simply want to know more about your prosthetic options, make an appointment at the New York City-based practice today by calling the office or clicking the online scheduling tool.

Dental Implants Q&A

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are a type of oral prosthetic that act as replacement tooth roots and don’t rely on your surrounding teeth for support. Instead, Dr. Malafis starts by numbing the bone and gums where the implant will be placed and one or more implants will be placed. Following the procedure, you return home for three to four months. During this time, your bone tissue grows around each implant, fusing them to your jaw and creating a strong bond.

 

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Dental implants require a series of appointments and 6-12 months to fully integrate with your jaw. Though this may seem like a time-consuming process, with proper care, dental implants can last for decades.

What are the advantages of dental implants?

Dental implants present a wide range of advantages, including:

  • Improved comfort
  • Improved self-esteem
  • Improved speech
  • Easier eating
  • Durability
  • Convenience

They also encourage good oral health. If you’re missing some or all of your permanent teeth, you’re also more likely to experience gum recession and bone loss.

Am I a good candidate for dental implants?

Only a qualified dentist like Dr. Malafis can determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implants. You do need healthy gums and enough jawbone volume to hold the implants in place, though. If you don’t, Dr. Malafis might recommend a sinus lift or bone graft before moving forward with treatment.

During your initial consultation, you should also let Dr. Malafis know about any chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes. These problems won’t necessarily prevent you from getting implants, but they may increase your risk of complications.

What is the process of getting dental implants?

Getting dental implants starts with a thorough consultation. During this appointment, Dr. Malafis conducts an oral exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about your goals for treatment. He also takes a series of digital images with the cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) system to get a closer look at your tooth roots and jaw.
On the day of your implant procedure, Dr. Malafis administers a local anesthetic to numb your tooth roots and gums. After the anesthesia sets in, he carefully places several small metal posts –– one for each missing tooth –– into small incisions in your gum tissue. Following surgery, you return home for several months while your mouth heals.

At your second appointment, Dr. Malafis attaches a metal piece, also known as an abutment, to each implant. Next, he takes digital impressions of your remaining teeth. Dr. Malafis uploads these impressions and manufactures your crowns, bridge, or implant-supported dentures on-site. When the machine finishes, he carefully bonds your new prosthetic to your implants. This all occurs on the same day, saving you time and preventing the need for multiple appointments.

To request your dental implant consultation at Master Dental today, call the office or click the online scheduling tool.