PROSTHODONTIC DENTISTRY

DENTAL IMPLANTS

Although associated with a surgical procedure to insert small titanium fixtures into the jaw bone, dental implants are considered a very conservative option to replace missing teeth. Since the implant is supported directly by the bone, the method will not affect other teeth as compared to other replacement options. 

In order to replace missing teeth by implants, one or two surgery is required to secure a small screw shaped titanium fixture into the jaw bone. Following the surgical phase, depending on conditions, immediately or after a certain healing time a crown will be attached to the fully bone supported implant. Individual biologic conditions are the main indicators to determine the healing time.

At our office we perform all stages of implant placement and restoration to assure the high quality of final result using only the very well researched and evidenced international implant systems. With our state of the art equipment at the office, selection of only reliable systems, prosthodontic training of our providers, and our talented dental laboratory partners our patients only expect the best outcome.

If you are self-conscious because you have missing teeth, wear dentures that are

uncomfortable or don't want to have good tooth structure removed to make a bridge,

talk to your dentist to see if dental implants are an option for you.

Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth and are

designed to blend in with your other teeth. They are an excellent long-term option for

restoring your smile. In fact, the development and use of implants is one of the

biggest advances in dentistry in the past 40 years. Dental implants are made up of

titanium and other materials that are compatible with the human body. They are

posts that are surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw, where they function as a

sturdy anchor for replacement teeth.

Most patients find that a dental implant is secure, stable and a good

replacement for their own tooth. There are generally three phases to getting an

implant:

• First, the dentist surgically places the implant into the jawbone. Your dentist

may recommend a diet of soft foods, cold foods and warm soup during the

healing process.

• Next, the bone around the implant heals in a process called osseointegration.

What makes an implant so strong is that the bone actually grows around it

and holds it in place. Osseointegration means “combines with the bone” and

takes time. Some patients might need to wait until the implant is completely

integrated, up to several months, before replacement teeth can be attached

to the implant. Other patients can have the implants and replacement teeth

placed all in one visit.

• Finally, it’s time for the placement of the artificial tooth/teeth. For a single

tooth implant, your dentist will customize a new tooth for you, called a dental

crown. The crown will be based on size, shape, color and fit, and will be

designed to blend in with your other teeth. If you are replacing more than a

single tooth, custom-made bridges or dentures will be made to fit your mouth

and your implants. (Note: The replacement teeth usually take some time to

make. In the meantime, your dentist may give you a temporary crown, bridge

or denture to help you eat and speak normally until the permanent

replacement is ready.)

If you are interested in dental implants, it's a good idea to discuss it carefully with

your dentist first. If you are in good general health this treatment may be an option for

you. In fact, your health is more of a factor than your age. You may be medically

evaluated by a physician before any implant surgery is scheduled.

Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or leukemia, may interfere with healing after

surgery. Patients with these issues may not be good candidates for implants. Using

tobacco can also slow healing.