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Dental implants are changing the way
people live. They are designed to provide a foundation
for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like
natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the
ability to eat virtually anything, knowing that teeth
appear natural and that facial contours will be
preserved. Patients with dental implants can smile with
confidence.
What Are Dental Implants?
The implants themselves are tiny titanium screws that are
surgically placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal screws
act as the tooth’s root substitute. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a
strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts that protrude through the
gums are then attached to the implant. These posts provide stable anchors for
the artificial replacement teeth.
Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing bone
deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.
The Surgical Procedure
For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves
two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the
first three to four months following surgery, the implants are beneath the
surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. If you have a temporary
prosthesis you should be able to comfortably wear it during this time.
After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase
begins. Our doctors will uncover the implants and attach small posts that
protrude through the gums that will act as anchors for the artificial teeth.
When the artificial teeth are placed, these posts will not be seen.
The entire procedure usually takes six to ten months, depending if bone grafting
needs to be done. Most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily
life.
Surgical Advances
Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology,
our doctors are able to place single stage implants. These implants do not
require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of six
weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed. There are even
situations where the implants can be placed at the same time as a tooth
extraction – further minimizing the number of surgical procedures. Advances in
dental implant technology have made it possible, in select cases, to extract
teeth and place implants with crowns at one visit.
Implants are a team effort between us and your restorative
dentist. While our doctors perform the actual implant surgery, initial tooth
extractions, and bone grafting if necessary, the restorative dentist (your
dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make
any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.
What Types Of Prosthesis Are Available?
A single prosthesis (crown) is used to replace one missing
tooth – each prosthetic tooth attaches to its own implant. A partial prosthesis
(fixed bridge) can replace two or more teeth and may require only two or three
implants.
Why Dental Implants?
Once you learn about dental implants, you finally realize
there is a way to improve your life. When you lose several teeth – whether it’s
a new situation or something you have lived with for years – chances are you
have never become fully accustomed to losing such a vital part of yourself.
Dental implants can be your doorway to renewed
self-confidence and peace of mind.
Why Select Dental Implants Over More Traditional Types Of
Restorations?
There are several ways to restore a missing tooth or several
teeth.
-
A plastic stayplate (flipper) is inexpensive but is the
least esthetic and the least comfortable.
-
A bridge is approximately the same cost as an implant but
there is a need to sacrifice the surrounding good tooth structure to support
a bridge.
-
A removal partial denture is necessary if there are
several missing teeth; however they are inconvenient, uncomfortable and
sometimes physically unable to be worn.
Dental Implants are able to replace your missing teeth in the
most comfortable, functional and the best esthetics compared to all other
options.
Are You A Candidate For Implants?
If you are considering implants, your mouth must be examined
thoroughly and your medical and dental history reviewed. If you mouth is not
ideal for implants, ways of improving outcome, such as bone grafting, may be
recommended.
What Type Of Anesthesia Is Used?
The majority of dental implants and bone grafting procedures
can be performed in our office under local anesthesia. There are times when
these procedures are done under IV Sedation. If you have any questions, please
talk with doctors.
Do Implants Need Special Care?
Once the implants are in place, they will serve you well for
many years if you take care of them and keep your mouth healthy. This means
taking the time for good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and keeping
regular appointments with your general dentist.
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