Dental Implants

Dental implants are becoming much more popular in modern dentistry for a number of reasons.  Dental implants are utilized to offer patients a firm and reliable foundation for new restorative teeth where natural teeth are missing or have been extracted.  The dental implant offers each patient the opportunity to be restored to full functionality of the tooth without being forced to the alternatives of a bridge or a denture.

Benefits from Dental Implants:

• The dental implant will bond (osseointergrate) with your natural and existing bone.
• Your teeth will be firmly and safely supported with a new dental implant.
• Dental implants provide an aesthetically pleasing look to your teeth and smile.
• Elimination of pain during normal functions like talking or eating.
• Prevention of progressive bone atrophy will be in effect.
• Dental implants have been scientifically proven to better your dental functionality and health

Procedure

The tooth structure has two main sections, the root and the crown.  The root is the section of the tooth that is below the gumline.  A dental implant acts as the restorative for this section of the tooth.  The metal implant acts as an anchor in the jawbone. The first step of the procedure is surgical placement of the dental implant.  Under regular dental anesthetic, the gum tissue is opened and the dentist places the dental implant into the jawbone.  When this is achieved, the tissue is then sutured closed.  There is not often significant discomfort with this procedure.  This process can take from 1-3 hours depending on the number of dental implants being placed.

This dental implant will be left untreated for a period of 3-6 months. During this time, the bone will grow around the dental implant in a process called osseointegration.  A removable crown may be utilized during this time period to allow for chewing and to preserve the cosmetic appearance..

The next step in the process is to attach an abutment to the tooth.  This is achieved by exposing the top of the dental implant and placing the abutment.  This is the part of the dental implant that will support the final crown.

Finally, an impression is taken of the dental implant and a final restoration is crafted.  This restoration will be comfortable and cosmetically pleasing.  Your completed dental implant will be fully functional, allowing you to resume normal activities.