Dental Implants

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by Dr. (Doctor). Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

Conventional vs. Laser Assisted Implant Placement

Conventional implant placement involves incisions followed by pulling the gums back off the bone. After preparation of the bone the implant is placed and the gum is sutured back. The process of pulling the gums back from the bone and then suturing them in place after implant placement is responsible for most of the pain and all of the swelling after implant placement.

Dental Implant Overview

For a brief narrated overview of the dental implant process, please click the image on the right. It will launch our flash educational MiniModule in a separate window that may answer some of your questions about dental implants.

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Laser assisted implant placement differs widely from the conventional implant placement in that no incisions or sutures are used during implant placement. Instead, a small circle of gum is removed using a high speed CO2 laser allowing for placement of the dental implant. The laser allows this procedure to involve little to no blood. It also sterilizes the tissue at the surgical site decreasing the chances of infection. The combination of the implant and the minimally invasive technique has shown to dramatically reduce or eliminate the post-operative pain, swelling and brusing often associated with dental implant placement.

Procedure

Dental implants are metal anchors, which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. We will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. Then, Dr. (Doctor) will be able to begin making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes about four months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.

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