Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to removable partials or complete dentures. Dental implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.

Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a Periodontist – a specialist of the gums and supporting bone. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!

Dental implants are very strong, stable, durable, and will last many years.
Dental Implants

Reasons for dental implants:

  • Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
  • Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
  • Restore a patient’s confident smile.
  • Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.
  • Restore or enhance facial tissues.
  • Support a dental bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable.

What does getting dental implants involve?

The first step in involves a consultation to determine if you are a candidate for dental implants. At the initial appointment, an oral and a radiographic evaluation of the sites for implant placement will be undertaken.

NobelClinician20Software1If you are a candidate for implants, then a CBCT scan will be taken to evaluate the bone and location of vital structures. If the site can be used for implant placement impressions will be taken of upper and lower teeth. This is necessary in order to develop a surgical guide through Nobel Clinician Software. This is used in the initial stage in preparing the site for implant placement. The surgical guide determines the depth of the implant in bone, proper angle of the implant to opposing teeth or implant, and proper spacing between teeth and implants.

My belief is no implant should be placed without a surgical guide.

After the implant is placed, either the gum tissue is closed over the implant using dissolvable sutures or left exposed with a healing cap. The implant needs to heal for 4 to 6 months before it can be restored. A second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. 

You will receive post surgical instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new implant. 

If you have any questions about dental implants, please ask your periodontist.