IMPLANTS

Within the last 15-20 years implants have become on of the most important and significant additions to the dental field.  It has revolutionized the way dentists can replace missing teeth.  Patients can now have fixed (i.e. permanent) teeth.  Rather than dentures of partial dentures.  Patients can now expect to have implant retained crowns and bridges.

Simply put, an implant is a metal screw or post, which is implanted into the jaw.  From there it can be used as an anchor for retaining a single crown or used for multiple bridges or a denture.    The metal is usually made from titanium.  The procedure can be performed on an out patient basis.  Typically implant placement is performed by either a periodontist or an oral surgeon.  But as popularity has grown many general or family dentists are placing them as well.  Be sure that if a general dentist performs the work that he or she has continuing education in the area.  They should have taken courses relating to implant placement.

There are a variety of different types of brands of implants.  #I, Nobel biocare are two of the major players who fabricate the implants.   From there the dentist will use their system of choice.  It is not unusual for patients to have anywhere from 1-8 placed at one time.

Typically, once the implants are placed the patient has to wait 3-6 months before they can have the final step done.  This is because the bone from the jaw needs to integrate or fuse with the implant.  Once this has been achieved the next step entails taking impressions for the final restorations.  Depending on the number of implants placed and the particular treatment plan, which was discussed prior to the placement of the implants, this determines what the final outcome will be.  It may be as simple as a single crown or multiple bridges or a precision attached partial or full denture.

Whatever the final outcome may be, implants are here to stay.  They have been show to be very strong and retentive.  They are an investment.  Highly restoring a patients function, confidence and smile