Dental implants are changing the way people live! They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved.

What are Dental Implants?

The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts which are inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jaw bone. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implant which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.

The Surgical Procedure

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves one surgical procedure. The implants are placed within your jawbone by a minor surgical procedure in the office. They can be placed under local anesthesia or under intravenous sedation. After 4 months, the implants become bonded to the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, teeth can be made on top of them.

Requirements for Dental Implants

The implants have to have bone surrounding them. Therefore, you must have enough width of bone and height of bone to accomodate the implants. Patients often do not have sufficient bone to completely surround the implants. In such cases, the addition of bone by Bone Grafting is performed first, followed later by placement of dental implants.