Dental Implants

Dental implants come as close as possible to restoring natural teeth, and they are used to replace missing or extracted teeth. An implant is a permanent reconstruction consisting of a titanium post that is placed into the bone to act as an artificial root. It supports replacement teeth like a bridge, crown, or denture.

Implant therapy procedure is a two-stage process. The first stage is a surgery, during which a titanium post is placed into the bone. After a healing period of several months (during which bone integrates around the implant), the second stage begins. In the second stage, the replacement crown(s), bridge, or denture are designed, fabricated, and attached to the implant, which now acts as an anchor to keep everything in place.

Planning for an implant can be a complex process. The bone, soft tissue, and remaining teeth must be evaluated to make sure the mouth is healthy and there is enough space and bone support for the implant. When this is not the case, additional procedures may be necessary to augment and/or prepare the area.

We assess and develop a treatment plan for implants. In some cases, we will place the implant at our office, and other more complex cases may be referred to a specialist with additional surgical training for placement of the implant. After healing has occurred, we design and insert the final prosthesis (replacement teeth). Follow-up involves regular check-ups and dental hygiene therapy to help you maintain your implant(s) and the rest of your natural teeth.

How Dental Implants Work