Dental Implants

~Providing restoration with a sure foundation

Sometimes, permanent teeth are lost due to accident, injury, disease or extraction. In such cases, dental implants may be considered as a secure, functional replacement option because they do not rely on neighboring teeth for support. Permanently anchored in the jawbone as tooth root substitutes, implants restore normal eating ability, provide face muscle support, and prevent jawbone atrophy. Implants areactually tiny posts, made of either a metallic or bone-like ceramic material. They are inserted into the jawbone below the gum surface, at the location of the missing tooth. The bone then bonds to the post and forms a secure foundation onto which artificial teeth may be attached and shaped to match your existing teeth.

So, basically, there are two general steps:

Placing the implant "fixtures"

In most implant situations, the first step inserts the tooth root substitute "fixture" into the jaw-bone below the gum tissue. To form a solid, enduring base with sufficient stability to withstand the tremendous mechanical pressure involved in normal chewing, the implant will typically be allowed to incorporate into the bone for 3 months or maybe a little more.. The presence of these inserts is generally not noticeable by the patient.  During the wait, a temporary bridge or dentures may be provided to facilitate eating and to help maintain facial muscle support. In the meantime, carefully designed artificial teeth are custom manufactured for use over the implant tops.

Restoring the lost tooth on the implant fixture

Once the implant has bonded with the jawbone, the restorative dentist (that's us) creates the new teeth and attaches them to the implants.  The result is a secure, attractive, replacement tooth or set of teeth, designed to function as effectively as the remaining natural teeth. Depending on the number of teeth involved, this final step in the implant process usually requires no more than 2-4 visits.

What does this all feel like? And is it successful?

Modern i mplant technology is approximately 30 years old, and has proven successful in tooth replacement, depending primarily on the recipient's health, as well as the location and function of the teeth being replaced. Teeth placed in the lower jaw may be over 95% successful, while upper jaw implants may be 85-90% successful. It's also best if recipients are in good general health, with proper bone structure and healthy gums. Often, people unable to wear dentures are among those who benefit most from implants. On the other hand, chronic health problems such as clenching, bruxism, or systemic diseases may decrease the success rate of the procedure immensely. Finally, those who smoke or drink alcohol may also be poor candidates for implants.

Most people a amazed at how comfortable the procedures are and how lifelike the teeth are.  They absolutely look and feel like natural teeth that grew there!

Cost & Commitment

Due to the surgery involved, implant procedures are typically more expensive than traditional crowns or bridgework. However, dental and medical insurance may cover portions of such restoration. It's best to discuss this with Dr. Ross and our staff during your evaluation for implant placement, so that we can assist you in working with your insurance company.

Finally, implant candidates should seriously consider their own commitment to future oral health. In fact, poor oral hygiene itself is a common cause of implant failure. So, you'll want to be sure and brush and floss around your fixtures at least twice a day, according to the specific instructions we give you. Further, you may need up to four annual professional cleanings to maintain healthy gums.

BUT: Today's implant technology and 21st century restorative dentistry can change a bad situation into a great one.  And using implants can make tooth replacement much simpler than it was years ago.

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