Dental Implants

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for permanent tooth replacement that can look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth can regain the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants are small titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone integrates with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone resorption that occurs when teeth are lost.

Dental implants are changing the way people live. With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

Evaluation

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we may ask that you undergo a series of dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by either our doctor or by any of our surgical specialist in oral and maxillofacial surgery or periodontics. If the patient does not have a treatment surgeon, it will be our pleasure to refer you to one of our staff members. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

Procedure

Dental implants are titanium anchors that act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums, slowly integrating with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time.

After the implant have healed and integrated to the jawbone, the second phase begins. The surgeon will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. Our doctor can then start making your new teeth. An impression will be taken. Then restorations or attachments can be connected to the implants. The restorative procedure usually takes six to eight weeks depending on the complexity of the treatment. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.