Dental Implants
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Dental Implants
Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. Patients with dental implants can smile with confidence.
What are Dental Implants?
The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts, which are inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.
Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.
The Surgical Procedure
For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six 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. At the same time, your dentist is forming new replacement teeth.
After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Dr. Kollander will uncover the implants and attach small posts, which will act as anchors for the artificial teeth. These posts protrude through the gums. When the artificial teeth are placed, these posts will not be seen. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily life.
Surgical Advances
Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Kollander is able to place single stage implants. These implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them, but do require a minimum of six weeks of healing time before artificial teeth are placed.
There are even situations where the implants can be placed at the same time as a tooth extraction - further minimizing the number of surgical procedures. Advances in dental implant technology have made it possible, in select cases, to extract teeth and place implants with crowns at one visit. This procedure, called "immediate loading," greatly simplifies the surgical process.
Dental Implant FAQs
Who performs the implant placement?
Dr. Kollander performs the implant surgery, including extractions and bone grafting when necessary. Your restorative dentist designs and places the permanent prosthesis and any temporary teeth needed during the process.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Most patients are candidates for dental implants. A thorough examination and review of your medical and dental history is required. If your jawbone is not ideal, procedures such as bone grafting may be recommended to improve outcomes.
How long does the dental implant process take?
The full process typically takes six to eight months, though advanced techniques may allow for same-day implants in select cases.
What type of anesthesia is used?
Most dental implant procedures can be performed under local anesthesia, with or without sedation or general anesthesia, depending on patient needs and comfort.
Do dental implants require special care?
Dental implants can last many years with proper care. This includes good oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing, along with regular visits to your dental specialists.
Are dental implants better than dentures or bridges?
Dental implants provide superior stability, preserve surrounding healthy teeth, and eliminate the discomfort and inconvenience of removable dentures.
Where is implant surgery performed?
Most implant procedures are completed in our in-office surgical suite. Hospital surgery is recommended only for patients with complex medical needs or extensive grafting requirements.