DENTAL IMPLANTS 

An excellent way to replace a missing tooth or teeth.

The Problem: A missing tooth or teeth

• Potential bite and jaw joint problems from teeth shifting to fill the space
• The "sunken face" look associated with missing teeth
• Inability to chew efficiently
• Loose denture needs to be tightened
• Desire to replace a missing tooth or teeth by means other than a bridge
• Unesthetic smile that needs correction

The Solution:

A dental implant is a fixture used to replace the root of a tooth. The implant is surgically placed in the jawbone and a porcelain tooth is attached to the top of the implant, creating a natural looking and undetectable replacement for the missing tooth. In the event that more than one tooth is missing, several implants may provide a base for a series of artificial teeth known as a fixed bridge (see fixed bridges.) Implants can even be used to secure a full set of removable dentures for people who have no remaining natural teeth. This can improve chewing ability by greatly increasing the stability and retention of the denture.           

                                                                        

Advantages:

A dental implant with a crown attached on top is the closest thing to regrowing your natural tooth. There is no need to alter the teeth on either side as would be necessary to fill in the space with a bridge. Therefore, an implant can be cleaned at home with similar brushing and flossing techniques which increases longevity. Implants are durable and esthetic.

The increase in tightness and chewing efficiency is dramatic when attaching a denture to two or more implants.

Advantages of Dental Implants Over  Dentures or a Bridge

Every way you look at it, dental implants are a better solution to the problem of missing teeth.

• Esthetic   Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth! Since dental implants integrate into the structure of your bone, they prevent the bone loss and gum recession that often accompany bridgework and dentures. No one will know that you have a replacement tooth.
• Tooth-saving   Dental implants don't sacrifice the quality of your adjacent teeth like a bridge does because neighboring teeth are not altered to support the implant. More of your own teeth are left untouched, a significant long-term benefit to your oral health!
• Confidence   Dental implants will allow you to once again speak and eat with comfort and confidence! They are secure and offer freedom from the irksome clicks and wobbles of dentures. They'll allow you to say goodbye to worries about misplaced dentures and messy pastes and glues.
• Reliable   The success rate of dental implants is highly predictable. They are considered an excellent option for tooth replacement.

Disadvantages:

Dental implants are excellent, state-of-the-art restorations and have few disadvantages when compared to alternatives such as bridges or dentures. However, dental implants do require minor surgery and time to heal, and they are initially more expensive than fixed bridges or conventional dentures. These disadvantages are offset by the increased function and long term health benefits of implants.

Alternatives:

Fixed bridges are an alternative for one or a few missing teeth. Partial dentures are an alternative for a few to several missing teeth. Complete dentures, either implant supported or not, can be used when all the teeth in an arch are missing.

 

What Is Treatment Like?

This procedure is a team effort between you and us. We will consult with you and see your jaw x-rays to determine where and how the implant should be placed. Depending on your specific condition and the type of implant chosen, we will create a treatment plan tailored to meet your needs.

Replacing a Single Tooth   If you are missing a single tooth, one implant and a crown can replace it. A dental implant replaces both the lost natural tooth and its root.          

                                                      

Replacing Several Teeth   If you are missing several teeth, implant-supported bridges can replace them. Dental implants will replace both your lost natural teeth and some of the roots.

                                                

Replacing All of Your Teeth   If you are missing all of your teeth, an implant-supported full bridge or full denture can replace them. Dental implants will replace both your lost natural teeth and some of the roots.

What Can I Expect After Treatment?

As you know, your own teeth require conscientious at-home oral care and regular dental visits. Dental implants are like your own teeth and will require the same care. In order to keep your implant clean and plaque-free, brushing and flossing still apply!

After treatment, we will work closely with you to develop the best care plan for you. Periodic follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your implant, teeth and gums to make sure they are healthy.

Immediate Implant Concept

Traditionally a patient with no teeth had to get the implants placed in the jaw and wait for 3 to 6 months to get new teeth.

With the latest implant systems that we employ we can provide our patients with teeth on the same day as the implants are placed.

In selected cases we can even remove the teeth and place implants in the tooth socket and place an artificial tooth in just one sitting