Dental Procedures

DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental implants provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth, enabling the patient to eat virtually anything and smile with confidence. Teeth appear natural, facial contours are preserved and bone deterioration is prevented with implants – which are tiny titanium posts placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth.

Dental implants change lives – enabling patients to rediscover the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

Dental Implant Presentation

To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.

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Evaluation
If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by one of our doctors or by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon referred by Highpoint Dental Medicine. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

Procedure
Dental implants are metal anchors which are surgically placed into the jawbone and act as tooth root substitutes. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

For most patients, placement of dental implants requires two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For three to six months following the first surgery, the implants remain beneath the gum surface, gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs the final bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. The surgeon will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. An impression is taken and we can begin making your new teeth. Posts or attachments are connected to the implants, then the replacement teeth are made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.