What are Dental Implants?
Dental Implants have been used successfully for many years.
The implant itself is a post that is surgically placed in
the jaw. A prosthesis (artificial tooth or teeth) is then
attached to the post. Dental implants involve cooperation
between a specialist and our office. The surgical phase of
treatment is completed by the specialist, and the restorative
phase is completed at our office.
What are Dental Implants Used For?
There are two basic uses for Dental Implants:
- As an artificial root
for a fixed prosthesis (usually a single tooth or fixed bridge).
- As anchors for a removable
prosthesis (usually an Implant-Retained Denture).
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Implants
are generally considered as an alternative to Dentures, Partials, or Bridges.
When replacing a missing tooth in the front of the mouth, nothing looks more
natural than an implant. One important benefit of implants when used for Implant-Retained
Dentures is that they slow the shrinking of bone and gum tissue under
the denture.
- Of Americans between the ages of 18 and 64, approximately
49% are missing at least one tooth.
- Dental implants are the most advanced tooth replacement
system ever devised.
- More than nine out of ten implants last longer than 15
years.
- Dental implants never develop decay.
- Dental implants never require root canals.
- Dental implants preserve the jawbone, which can prevent
premature aging.
- No one can be disqualified for implant treatment solely
because of their age -- some patients receive implant treatment
when they are in their nineties!
How Are Dental Implants Placed?
Step One:
The gum is gently folded back and a space
is prepared for the implant to be placed.
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Step Two:
The dental implant "anchor"
is put into place.
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Step Three:
A temporary cap is placed on the implant
and the gum tissue is repositioned around the implant.
The implant is left alone for several months so the
bone can attach to the implant and create a secure anchor.
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Restorative Phase:
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Step One:
After the implant has had a chance to
attach to the bone tissue, the temporary cap is removed
from the anchor and a post is attached to the anchor.
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Step Two:
The implant is now ready for a prosthesis.
An impression is taken of the implant and the appropriate
prosthesis (crown, bridge
or overdenture) is
made.
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Step Three:
The prosthesis is then attached to the
implant(s).
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Considering a Dental Implant?
If you are considering a dental implant, contact
us for an evaluation appointment. Dr. Stoffregen will perform an evaluation
to determine whether you are a good candidate for a dental
implant. If you are a good candidate for an implant, Dr. Stoffregen will
provide you with further information to help you decide.
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