Implants

If you have gaps in your mouth where teeth have been extracted or if you have loose uncomfortable dentures, dental implants might be an option for you. Dental implants are becoming more popular today because they give patients the opportunity to regain normal function of the tooth without being forced to resort to a fixed bridge or a removable denture. A dental implant is a small anchor made of titanium that is inserted into the jawbone in place of your missing tooth root. After the bone heals around the implant, a crown is placed on top of the implant that looks like your natural tooth. With implants you can eat as if you had your healthy natural tooth. If you have dentures, you're in luck! The best use for implants is to anchor dentures. This prevents slipping, poor fit, and gum irritation. Many of my patients have mentioned how they were surprised at how little discomfort they felt with having the implants placed and how well they can chew again!

Procedure

The first step is the surgical placement of the implant by an oral surgeon. Under regular dental anesthetic, the gum tissue is opened and the doctor places the implant into the jawbone where it acts as an anchor. When this is complete, the tissue is then sutured closed. This process may take 1-3 hours depending upon the number of implants being placed. The implant is left to heal for 3-6 months. During this time a temporary partial can be worn so you don’t have to be without a tooth. The next step is to attach an abutment to the tooth. This is the part that will support the final crown. Next the impression is taken and sent to the lab where your final crown is crafted. It is then placed comfortably in your mouth a couple weeks later.