Dental Implants

 

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that provides an anchor for an artificial tooth (a crown). Unlike dentures or dental bridges, implants involve surgically placing one or more artificial tooth roots into the jawbone.

Implants are synthetic structures that are placed in the area of the tooth normally occupied by the root. Implants are anchored to the jawbone or metal framework on the bone and act as a foundation for an artificial tooth or permanent bridge. In some cases, implants can be used to attach dentures.

Not everyone is a candidate for a dental implant, however. For a successful implant to take hold, a candidate must have proper bone density and have a strong immune system. In all cases, dental implants require strict oral hygiene.

Implants are so well designed that they mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. Implants are usually made of a synthetic yet biocompatible material like metal or ceramic.

Surgery is necessary to prepare the area for an implant and place the implant in the mouth. Following the procedure, a period of time is required for the implant to take hold and for bone tissue to build up and anchor the device. In some cases, metal posts are inserted into the implant during a follow-up procedure to connect the tooth.

Because implants require surgery, patients are administered anesthesia and, if necessary, antibiotics to stave off infection following the procedure.

Like any restoration, implants require diligent oral hygiene and proper care to ensure they last a long time.

Advantages of Dental Implants

There are other alternatives to replace missing teeth, such as dental bridges or dentures. However, implants have several advantages over other techniques:

• Dental implants are secure and durable
• They replace the tooth root as well as the tooth, preventing any bone resorption (shrinking)
• The crowns attached to the implants look like natural teeth – no one but you and your cosmetic dentist will ever know the difference
• The crowns can be cleaned and cared for much like natural teeth
• Other teeth are not disturbed in the process of placing implants
• With proper care, they will last the rest of your life

Procedure

Dental implants are metal anchors that act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. Small posts are then attached to the implant which protrudes through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

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 gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, our office designs the final bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Dr Lou will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. Then, she will be able to begin making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. Following this, posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.

Implant and crown Placement

Dental implants are placed into the bone in a relatively pain-free procedure.  The bone and gums will be given time to heal
before an abutment and crown are attached.  In most cases, you can receive a temporary crown the same day the implant is installed.

        

Your final crown will be placed to restore your natural smile.

Dental implants are changing the way people live!  With dental implants, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh, and enjoy life. If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During your consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by Dr Lou or by a specialist (an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or periodontist) suggested by our practice. Your questions and concerns are important to us.  Our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

If you are bothered or embarrassed by missing teeth, contact us or email us today. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have about dental implants and schedule a free initial consultation with Dr.Lou. In just a few short months, you can have a complete and bright smile again with dental implants.