What are Implants?

Dental Implants have been used successfully for many years. The implant itself is a cylindrical post, usually made of titanium, that is surgically placed in the jaw. A prosthesis (artificial tooth or teeth) is then attached to the post.

Implant

Restoration

What are Dental Implants Used For?

There are two basic uses for Dental Implants:

1. As an artificial root for a fixed prosthesis (usually a single tooth or fixed bridge).
2. As anchors for a removable prosthesis (usually an Implant-Retained Denture).

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Implants are generally considered as an alternative to Dentures, Partials, or Bridges. When replacing a missing tooth in the front of the mouth, nothing looks more natural than an implant. One important benefit of implants when used for Implant-Retained Dentures is that they slow the shrinking of bone and gum tissue under the denture.

• Of Americans between the ages of 18 and 64, approximately 49% are missing at least one tooth.
• Dental implants are the most advanced tooth replacement system ever devised.
• More than nine out of ten implants last longer than 15 years.
• Dental implants never develop decay.
• Dental implants never require root canals.
• Dental implants preserve the jawbone, which can prevent premature aging.
• No one can be disqualified for implant treatment solely because of their age -- some patients receive implant treatment when they are in their nineties!

How are Dental Implants placed?

Step One:

The gum is gently folded back and a space is prepared for the implant to be placed.

Step Two:

The dental implant "anchor" is put into place.

Step Three:

The gum tissue is replaced over the implant and the implant is left alone for several months so the bone can attach to the implant and create a secure anchor.

Step Four:

After the implant has had a chance to attach to the bone tissue, the excess gum tissue is removed from above the implant.

Step Five:

The temporary cap is removed from the anchor and a post is attached to the anchor.

Step Six:

The implant is now ready for a prosthesis: A single tooth much like a crown, a fixed bridge, or an Implant-Retained Denture.

Considering a Dental Implant?

If you are considering a dental implant, Contact Us for an evaluation appointment. Dr. Patelski will perform an evaluation to determine whether you are a good candidate for a dental implant. If you are a good candidate for an implant, Dr. Patelski will provide you with further information to help you decide.

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