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What are Dental Implants?
Dental Implants have been used successfully for many years.
The implant itself is a post that is surgically placed
in the jaw. A prosthesis (artificial tooth or teeth)
is then attached to the post. Dental implants involve
cooperation between a specialist and our office. The
surgical phase of treatment is completed by the specialist,
and the restorative phase is completed at our office.
What are Dental Implants Used For?
There are two basic uses for Dental Implants:
- As an artificial root for a single tooth replacement.
- As anchors for a fixed or removable prosthesis
to replace multiple teeth.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
With the exception of your natural teeth,
nothing looks more natural than an implant. One important
benefit of implants is that they slow the shrinking
of bone and gum tissue from the area of the missing
tooth, thus preventing premature aging.
- Of Americans between the ages of 18 and 64, approximately
49% are missing at least one tooth.
- Dental implants are the most advanced tooth replacement
system ever devised.
- More than nine out of ten implants last longer than
15 years.
- Dental implants never develop decay.
- Dental implants never require root canals.
- Dental implants preserve the jawbone, which can
prevent premature aging.
- No one can be disqualified for implant treatment
solely because of their age -- some patients receive
implant treatment when they are in their nineties!
How Are Dental Implants Placed?
 Step One:
The gum is gently folded back and
a space is prepared for the implant to be placed.
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 Step Two:
The dental implant "anchor"
is put into place.
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 Step Three:
A temporary cap is placed on the
implant and the gum tissue is repositioned around
the implant. The implant is left alone for several
months so the bone can attach to the implant and
create a secure anchor.
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Restorative Phase:
 Step One:
After the implant has had a chance
to attach to the bone tissue, the temporary cap
is removed from the anchor and a post is attached
to the anchor.
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 Step Two:
The implant is now ready for a prosthesis.
An impression is taken of the implant and the
appropriate prosthesis (crown,
bridge or overdenture)
is made.
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 Step Three:
The prosthesis is then attached
to the implant(s).
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Considering a Dental Implant?
If you are considering a dental implant,
contact us for an evaluation
appointment. We will perform an evaluation to determine
whether you are a good candidate for a dental implant.
If you are a good candidate for an implant, we will
provide you with further information to help you decide.
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