Dental implants are the longest lasting, most predictable means of replacing missing teeth and also can provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures.  Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.

Dental implants are man-made roots (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist, usually an Oral Surgeon or Periodontist.  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 indefinitely. 

Reasons for dental implants:

• They will never get decay or gum disease
• Dental Implants preserve the jawbone, preventing it from shrinking in size.  When bone atrophies (shrinks) the face has a caved-in appearance.  This also indirectly helps prevent continued recession of gums on the adjacent natural teeth.

• Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.  This means no teeth are prepared by drilling as with crowns and bridges on natural teeth!
• In the case of a single tooth implant, no floss threader is needed as is required to floss under a bridge because the implant crown is free standing.
  
• Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
• Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.  More bite force can be generated on implants than on natural teeth!
  
• Restore or enhance facial tissues.
• Support a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable.
• The crowns and bridges on dental implants can often be removed if there is a porcelain fracture and easily repaired in a day with very little cost.  With crowns or bridges on natural teeth, the restoration must be destroyed to get it off and the patient has to buy a new one.
• Restore a patient’s confident smile.

What does getting dental implants involve?

The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.

X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. 

In some instances, bone needs to be added before an dental implant can be placed.  This is determined by the surgeon who will place the implant.

Next, a surgical guide is created on a model of your teeth that orientates the dental implant in the precise position and angulation needed for restoring  it.  While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone.  Patients report that the implant placement is usually easier than a tooth extraction, and of course you have the option of IV sedation.  Time is given for the bone to grow tight around the implant (integrate).  This takes anywhere from 5 weeks to 6 months depending on the quality of bone, among other factors.  In the case of some front teeth, a temporary crown can be made on the dental implant the day of implant placement.  Whether this option is used or something removable, you will never be without a temporary tooth to fill the space while waiting for the real crown or bridge.

After implant integration, an impression of the implant is made and the post (abutment) and crown or bridge are made.  Within about two weeks, the abutment is screwed into the dental implant and the crown or bridge is glued on, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.

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.