Dental Implants
Dental implants are a great option to replace single or multiple missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or dentures. Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.
Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jawbone by an oral surgeon. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile.
Dental implants are very strong, stable and durable and will last many years, but on occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.
As a general dentist, we do not place the implant it self, into the supporting bone. We refer patients to an oral surgeon, due to their credentials they hold as an oral surgeon. We will only complete the restorative aspect of the implant process once it is placed.
REASONS FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS
Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth
Support a bridge or denture, making them more stable and comfortable
Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space
Restore chewing, speech, and digestion
Restore or enhance facial tissues
Restore a patient’s smile
IMPLANT PROCESS
The implant process requires several visits over approximately eight to ten months.
Patient is seen in our office for evaluation and education of the implant process. The patient will then have a panoramic x-ray and impressions taken of the jaw and teeth to determine the level of bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for the implant placement. The information is then sent to the oral surgeon for evaluation to determine if the patient is a candidate for implants. There are several factors that determine if implant placement will be successful on a patient-by-patient basis. Also, there is a three to four month healing period after a tooth has been extracted, before an implant can be placed. If the patient is a good candidate for the procedure either the oral surgeon or our office will contact the patient to schedule for placement of the implant. I f needed after placement of the implant the patient may see our office for follow up appointments if varified through the oral surgeon. Four months after the initial implant is placed, the patient will again see the oral surgeon to have the implant uncovered, or have a healing coping placed. Ten days later, the patient may come in to our office to have crown process started. Two weeks later the crown is securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient
This is only a general overview of an individual tooth implant. Procedures may vary from patient to patient depending on individual needs.
You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene, eating habits and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new implant.