Implants

When one or more teeth have been lost due to injury, infection, periodontal disease, or other reasons, an implant serves as a strong, often permanent replacement. This minor surgical procedure involves the placement of a titanium screw into the jawbone. After healing, a crown is installed over the screw to complete the procedure and restore your smile.

Why Choose an Implant?

There are other cosmetic options that can replace the look of a missing tooth, such as a bridge, but these do not deliver the benefits of an implant. An implant provides:

• Stimulation of the jawbone, which is needed to retain bone density and avoid the loss of additional teeth over time;
• Preservation of facial contours; and
• Restoration of both the bite and roots of the tooth for a natural looking and feeling smile.

Implants support your long-term oral health.

What is Involved in the Implant Process?

The implant process begins with taking an x-ray of your mouth to determine the best positioning of the implant. This is followed by making a mold of your teeth which will be used to make the crown. Sometimes this mold is made after your mouth has healed from the implant procedure.

Next, a small incision is made in the gum line where the post is to be placed. The post is inserted into the jawbone, where it fuses with the underlying alveolar bone and supportive gum tissue to mimic natural dental roots. Healing can take 4 to 6 months and this technically completes the “implant” process. However, one more step is required to fully restore your smile.

Finally, a crown is made that matches the color, size, and shape of your remaining teeth and specific to its location and function in your mouth. Once the healing is complete, a mold will be made of your teeth, if needed, and a crown is made. This crown is then integrated with the implant and the restoration is complete.

This implant process can also be used to support a bridge or denture to keep it permanently in place.