General information about dental implants ...

Millions of Americans are missing one or more teeth. Older adults typically have more missing teeth. Dental implants are man-made substitutes for individual tooth roots. Advances in dental science now allow us to offer patients tooth replacements with dental implants, which look, feel and function similar to natural teeth. Dental implants can provide artificial teeth that look natural and feel secure.

Dental implants have solved many problems associated with removable full or partial dentures. If you have full or partial dentures or have lost a tooth, implants may be an option for you. Full or partial dentures can be loose, fit poorly, cause discomfort, and function inadequately. If you are missing one or more teeth and want to restore your ability to eat with comfort and confidence, dental implants may be right for you.

Dental implants are artificial substitutes for tooth roots and can support replacement teeth in a similar way as tooth roots support natural teeth. Dental implants can provide an alternative to the frustration of loose, ill-fitting dentures and embarrassing spaces from missing teeth.

When placed by trained dentists, long-term studies have shown that more than 90% of implant supported teeth are successful. In fact, with proper care, both at home and with regular dental visits, dental implants have lasted as long as 20 to 25 years. With recent advances in materials and techniques, dental implant surgery and restoration is more successful than ever before.

Procedure

While there are several types of implants, here we describe the most common form. A root form endosseous implant is a threaded or smooth cylinder similar in size to a tooth root. There are several methods for placing these implants. The most common method involves several steps. Other steps or additional procedures may be required based upon individual circumstances.

Step one

An incision is made through the gum to expose the jawbone in the implant locations. Each implant location is prepared with special instruments. The implant bodies are inserted into the bone and the gum tissue is closed and sutured.The submerged implants are allowed to heal for a period of three to nine months.

Step two

After an appropriate healing period, the top of each implant is exposed. A post is attached to each implant that extends through the gum tissue. These posts will secure the replacement teeth to the implants.

Step three

The selected form of replacement teeth are fabricated and attached to the posts and implants.