Dental implants are one of the most popular choices for replacing missing teeth, due to its many strengths as a procedure. With dental implants, your tooth replacement looks, feels, bites and functions almost exactly like an actual tooth. Made of a biocompatible metal, implants are placed into the jaw and fuse with the surrounding bone and tissue. A crown is then placed on the abutment. Implants are a great choice for:
- Single Tooth Replacement
- Anterior Replacement
- Posterior Replacement
- Full Upper and Lower Arch Replacement
Generally, the placement of dental implants requires two separate surgical procedures. The implant or artificial root is placed into the jawbone then allowed to heal and integrate with the bone. Once the healing process is completed and the jawbone is attached to the implant. The patient returns to the restorative dentist for the placement of an abutment (connector) and crown (tooth). This process generally takes anywhere from three to eight months.
Bone Grafting for Implants
Bone in the jaw is kept strong and healthy when a healthy tooth is in each socket. However, when bone loss occurs, the tooth has less support, can become loose and eventually be lost. Bone grafting and augmentation attempt to regenerate lost bone that supports teeth so dental implants can be used to replace the missing teeth.
Placing an implant during the bone graft procedure is not possible since there is a significant portion of bone missing. You will need two separate procedures. After the bone graft is complete, we suggest waiting approximately 3 - 5 months before placing your implant(s).
Implanted Supported Overdenture
Dental implants can be placed by Dr. Johnson to provide foundation and support for an overdenture. The overdenture snaps into the implants, keeping it from moving or shifting. Benefits of an implant overdenture include:
- Stable fit - no more loose dentures that cause embarrassment and lack of confidence
- Elimination of adhesives and creams used with regular dentures.
- Ability to speak more clearly and confidently
- Provides greater strength for better chewing ability
- Helps preserve bone by reducing bone deterioration