Dental Implants
A dental implant is a viable option for replacing a missing tooth. These are manufactured devices surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw, serving as anchors for replacement teeth. Made from titanium and other biocompatible materials, implants look and feel like natural teeth, fitting securely when you chew and speak.
|
VIDEO
|
There are several types of dental implant-supported prostheses. Here’s a brief overview:
Single Tooth Implant: a standalone unit that doesn't require treatment of adjacent teeth, allowing the surrounding teeth to remain untouched. Ideal for replacing a single missing tooth, it requires one dental crown connected to the implant screw.
|
Implant-Supported Bridge: Suitable for multiple missing teeth, it anchors to implants instead of natural teeth. It restores function
|
Implant-supported dentures: A permanent solution for many missing teeth in an entire jaw. Overdentures can be either fixed or removed.
|
The Single Tooth Implant Process
Dental implant treatment consists of two stages: surgical and restorative. At our office, the process begins with a referral to an oral surgeon for the surgical phase, which includes an examination and consultation. Not everyone is a candidate for implants. The surgeon will review your medical history, as health is a more significant factor than age. For instance, chronic illnesses such as diabetes or leukemia may impede healing after surgery. Additionally, tobacco users are at a higher risk of developing gum disease, which can weaken the bone and tissues necessary to support the implant. The surgeon will assess the area, examine bone quality, and perform a special type of X-ray known as CBCT to evaluate bone density. Adequate jawbone is required to support an implant. If your jawbone is not dense or voluminous enough, implants may not be an option. In some cases, a bone graft procedure might be suggested. Based on the assessment results, the surgeon will determine if implant treatment is suitable for you. If it is, they will proceed with the surgical phase, placing the implant after obtaining informed consent. This step ensures a stable foundation for the implant. Following the healing period, Dr. Guy will take over, customizing and attaching the crown or prosthetic tooth to the implant, thus completing the restorative phase. Our collaborative approach guarantees the best possible results for our patients.
Bone Grafting
. Bone grafts serve as a foundation for successful implant placement, ensuring stability and durability. There are several types of bone grafts, including autografts (using bone from your own body), allografts (from a tissue bank), xenografts (animal-derived material), and synthetic grafts. During the bone graft surgery, your oral surgeon administers anesthesia, places the graft material, and provides postoperative care instructions. While bone grafts add an extra step, they play a crucial role in ensuring the long-term success of your implant123. Remember that your jaw will need time to heal (usually 4-12 months) before getting the implant. Remember that your jaw will need time to heal (usually 4-12 months) before getting the implant.
Learn more
Learn more
Treatment generally is a three-part process that takes several months. Your dentist may provide the treatment, or you may be referred to a specialist.
Surgical Stage: Initially, the surgeon places the implant in the jaw, with the top just above the bone surface. After placement, they may insert a screw to prevent debris entry and then suture the gum over the implant, or they might attach a "healing abutment" for the gum to heal around. The implant should remain undisturbed for three to six months to allow "osseointegration," the bonding of the implant with the bone. Post-surgery swelling or tenderness is typical, and pain medication may be prescribed for relief. After the integration period, the patient returns to the surgeon to have the implant uncovered if it was covered initially, and the healing abutment is placed. Another 4-6 weeks of healing is necessary before proceeding. If the abutment was placed at the start, the surgeon checks the torque strength to verify bone integration. With adequate integration, the restorative phase can begin. The implant serves as the base for the new tooth. |
Final Stage:
The restorative dentist attaches a coping to the implant to take an impression or mold, sent to the lab. This impression allows the lab to know the implant's precise location in the bone and to create a custom "tooth" that matches the size, shape, color, and fit of the adjacent teeth. Once prepared, the crown is attached to the implant. VIDEO
|