Dental Implants in Meridian, MS
The Gold Standard for Tooth Replacement by a Surgical Specialist
Missing teeth can compromise your ability to eat and speak, and also lead to serious oral health issues like bone loss. Dental implants are the most advanced solution for tooth replacement, restoring full function and a natural appearance to your smile. As a board-certified periodontist in Meridian, MS, Dr. J. Eric Herrington is a dental implant specialist who can perform your surgery with the highest degree of precision and safety.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically embedded in the jawbone. It acts as a surrogate tooth root, providing a permanent and stable foundation for a custom-made dental crown, bridge, or denture. Crucially, the implant stimulates the jawbone, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs after tooth loss and preserving your facial structure.
Why Choose a Periodontist for Dental Implant Placement?
When considering dental implant placement, the choice of a periodontist vs. a general dentist is significant. A periodontist is a surgical specialist with three additional years of training focused exclusively on the gums and underlying bone—the very foundation of a successful implant.
As a dental implant specialist, Dr. Herrington has advanced knowledge to:
- Expertly manage the gum and bone tissue for optimal implant stability and aesthetics.
- Treat underlying issues like gum disease before surgery.
- Perform complex preparatory procedures like a dental bone graft or sinus lift.
- Offer advanced sedation dentistry options for maximum comfort.
Choosing a periodontist minimizes risks and ensures your investment in dental implants is built to last.
The Dental Implant Process
- Consultation: Dr. Herrington will conduct a thorough examination, including 3D imaging, to assess your oral health and determine your candidacy.
- Preparatory Procedures: If needed, gum disease treatment or a dental bone graft will be performed first.
- Implant Placement: The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone. This is performed with local anesthesia and optional sedation.
- Osseointegration: Over the next several months, the implant fuses with the jawbone, creating a strong, permanent bond.
- Restoration: Once healed, an abutment is attached to the implant, and your general dentist will place the final crown, bridge, or denture.
Dental Implant Options
We offer several solutions to meet your specific needs:
- Traditional Implants: The most common type, used to replace one or more individual teeth.
- All-on-4® Implants: A full-arch restoration using just four strategically placed implants, often avoiding the need for extensive bone grafting.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: A full denture that snaps onto a series of implants for superior stability compared to traditional dentures.
Preparatory Treatments for Implants
A healthy foundation is key. To become an ideal candidate, you may first need:
- Gum Disease Treatment: Active periodontitis must be treated to eliminate infection and create a healthy environment for the implant.
- Dental Bone Graft: If you have experienced bone loss, a graft is necessary to rebuild the jaw and provide a stable base for the implant.
- Sinus Lift: A specialized graft for the upper jaw, creating the necessary height for implant placement near the sinuses.
Consult Our Meridian Dental Implant Specialist
To find out if dental implants are the right solution for you, schedule a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Herrington. As a top periodontist in Meridian, he is dedicated to providing safe, effective, and long-lasting results. Contact us online or call (601) 482-6938 today.