What are dental implants?

A dental implant is a small, sturdy, titanium post inserted into the upper or lower jaw that acts as the root structure would for a natural tooth. After osseointegration, dental implants support the connection by means of a prosthetic component, offering a natural-looking replacement for missing teeth.

Who are candidates for dental implants?

Dental implants are appropriate for almost anyone who is missing teeth or at risk of losing teeth because of cavities, gum disease, accidents, etc. If you're missing one tooth or all of your teeth, dental implants are an ideal option for you. With healthy gums and enough bone in the area of the missing tooth to facilitate the anchorage of the implants, this procedure can yield terrific results. If you don't have enough bone for this purpose, a bone graft may be necessary. For patients with a small dental bridge or partial dentures (removable type), implants will be a welcomed alternative. A thorough evaluation by your dentist will help determine whether dental implants are right for you.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants have helped hundreds of thousands of people regain the function and confidence they once took for granted. Whether you’re missing a single tooth or require a complete set of teeth, implants have many benefits to offer.

• Esthetics - 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.
• Tooth-saving - Dental implants don't sacrifice the quality of your adjacent teeth like a bridge does. 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 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 therapy.

How are they placed?

Surgical Phase:
Under local anesthetic, in a sterile field, the surgeon places one or more implants into the jaw bone through a gentle surgical procedure by means of a specific technique. A healing period of 3-4 months in the lower jaw or 6-8 months in the upper jaw is recommended. During the healing phase, a temporary prosthesis or denture is placed so you are never without teeth.

Prosthetic Phase:
After normal healing, the implant site is exposed through the gums (if gums covered the implant). An impression of the implant site is taken and a dental laboratory selects a prosthetic component. The final crown is fabricated directly to the prosthetic component.

Restorative Phase:
The prosthetic component is attached to the implant and the final crown is seated on the component.

To determine if dental implants are the right treatment option for you, speak with your dental professional.