Dental Implants

Dental implants are changing the way people live! They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Dental implants allow the person who has lost teeth to regain the ability to eat virtually anything and to smile with confidence, knowing their teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved.

What are Dental Implants?
Implants themselves are tiny titanium posts which are placed into the bone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. The bone heals around the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Prosthetic crowns or denture attachments are then attached to the implants. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

The Surgical Procedure

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves one or two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within the bone.  For the first two to four months following surgery, the implants are beneath or at  the surface of the gums, gradually healing. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a regular to soft diet during this time. After determining that the implants have healed, our doctors will then contact your restoring dentist to initiate the restorative phase.  At this time you will be ready to have your replacement teeth fabricated and placed. This entire procedure can take anywhere between several weeks to four months depending on the  treatment plan and circumstances. Most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily life.

In many situations teeth can be removed and an implant can immediately be placed in the empty socket at the same appointment.  A temporary, esthetically pleasing restoration/tooth can be attached to this implant.  This procedure can only be employed following consultation with your surgeon prior to the day of the procedure.  The use of immediate implants greatly decreases treatment time and can provide superior results.

Our doctors are also well versed at dental implant treatment for patients who suffer from atrophy (shrinkage) of the jaw.  There are many techniques that can be utilized to restore form and function to the oral cavity and are best discussed during a consultation with your oral surgeon.