Dental Implants

Procedures

Dental implants are metal anchors that act as tooth root substitutes. They are chemically similar to the titanium alloy metals utilized in orthopedic surgery. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. After the implant has integrated with the bone, small posts are then attached to the implant which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

For many 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.

After the jawbone has bonded to the implant, the second phase begins. Your periodontist will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. After a few weeks your restorative dentist will be able to start making your new teeth. An impression/mold must be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure often times takes as little as six to eight months. Usually patients experience only minor disruptions in their daily life.

Occasionally, if the bone and soft tissue quality is good and if a removable restoration isn't loading the site, the second stage of healing cuff can be placed at the first stage surgery (thus saving a second surgical procedure and postoperative healing phase). The feasibility of this approach to treatment is determined at the time of implant placement surgery by your periodontist.