What are Dental Implants?

Before

After

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 jawbone. 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 bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

The Surgical Procedure for Dental Implants

For most patients the placement of dental implants involves one single surgical procedure to place them. Most (but not all) implants are allowed to remain beneath the surface of the gums after placement, and the areas implanted are usually clinically healed in 7 to 10 days. However, in very healthy bone for certain cases, some implants can actually be “loaded” (and a crown or bridge placed) immediately.

After 8 to 10 weeks, bone actually bonds to the implant surfaces and they are then ready to be put into function. During the 8 to 10 weeks after placement, patients may be able to wear temporary dentures (especially for missing front teeth) and except for the first few weeks they may actually eat a regular diet.

The second phase begins about 10 weeks later when a second short (minor) procedure of about 10 minutes “uncovers” the implants. Dr Scuba will attach small “healing” posts to protrude through and shape the gums to allow the most stable and cosmetic result possible. About two weeks later, the “healing” posts are removed (simply unscrewed and requiring no shots or surgery) and the implants are ready for permanent “final” posts to be placed to hold the permanent replacement teeth. When the replacement teeth are placed by your restorative dentist, the “final” posts are covered by the replacement teeth and will not be seen.

The entire procedure--implants to placement of the replacement teeth--may take as little as 10 to 12 weeks. But even the most technically difficult cases (jawbone atrophy, multiple missing teeth, requiring multiple implants and grafting) can usually can be completed in six to eight months.

Most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily life after implant placement and are back to work in only a day or two. Even with multiple implants, a “long weekend” recovery is often entirely adequate to get them back to work or other normal daily activities.

Who actually performs the implant placement?

Implants are a team effort between an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and a Restorative Dentist. While Dr. Scuba performs the actual implant surgery, and initial tooth extractions and bone grafting if necessary, the restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.

What types of prostheses are available?

A single prosthesis (crown) is used to replace one missing tooth – each prosthetic tooth attaches to its own implant. A partial prosthesis (fixed bridge) can replace two or more teeth and may require only two or three implants. A complete dental prosthesis (fixed bridge) replaces all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw. The number of implants varies depending upon which type of complete prosthesis (removable or fixed) is recommended. A removable prosthesis (over denture) attaches to a bar or ball in socket attachments, whereas a fixed prosthesis is permanent and removable only by the dentist.

Dr. Scuba performs in-office implant surgery in a hospital-style operating suite, thus optimizing the level of sterility. Inpatient hospital implant surgery is for patients who have special medical or anesthetic needs or for those who need extensive bone grafting from the jaw, hip or tibia.

Why dental implants?

Once you learn about dental implants, you finally realize there is a way to improve you life. When you lose several teeth – whether it’s a new situation or something you have lived with for years – chances are you have never become fully accustomed to losing such a vital part of yourself.

Dental implants can be your doorway to renewed self-confidence and peace of mind.

Why would you select dental implants over more traditional types of restorations?

There are several reasons: Why sacrifice the structure of surrounding good teeth to bridge a space? In addition, removing a denture or a “partial” at night may be inconvenient, not to mention that dentures that slip can be uncomfortable and rather embarrassing.

Are you a candidate for implants?

If you are considering implants, your mouth must be examined thoroughly and your medical and dental history reviewed. If you mouth is not ideal for implants, ways of improving outcome, such as bone grafting, may be recommended.

What type of anesthesia is used?

The majority of dental implants and bone graft can be performed in the office under local anesthesia, with or without general anesthesia.

Do Implants need special care?

Once the implants are in place, they will serve you well for many years if you take care of them and keep your mouth healthy. This means taking the time for good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and keeping regular appointments with your dental specialists.