Dental Implants
Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement of teeth that look, feel and function similar to natural teeth. A person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence. The implants are tiny titanium screws which are placed into the jaw bone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium screw, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth or for dentures/partials to attach to. They can also prevent bone deterioration which can occur when teeth are missing.
Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.
Evaluation for Dental Implants
If you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you call and schedule a dental/radiographic examination and health history at our office. During this consultation visit, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by Dr. Marche’ Schulte, D.D.S. If Dr. Schulte believes implants are an option for you, we will refer you to one of our Periodontists or Oral Surgeons whom we work closely with and specialize in placing implants. These specialist will determine if implants will be an option for you based upon bone health and other considerations. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.
Dental Implant Procedure
Dental implants are titanium screws, which act as tooth roots. They are surgically placed into the jaw bone. Small posts, called abutments/attachments, are then connected to the implant, which protrude through the gum tissue. These abutments/attachments provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth or for a denture or partial to attach to.
For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, dental implants are placed within your jaw bone. For three to six months following the surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums and gradually bond with the jaw bone. A temporary tooth or denture/partial can be made for you during this time.
After the dental implant has bonded to the jaw bone, the second phase begins and Dr. Schulte can then start making your new teeth. An impression or mold must be taken. Then abutments or attachments can be connected to the implants. The replacement teeth are then made over the abutments or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.
Pros Of dental implants!
- They are a great option for non-restorable natural teeth. Implants will preserve bone especially on the mandible after tooth extractions.
- They are considered a longer term and more natural tooth replacement especially for a single tooth vs. a bridge. This is especially true when the two teeth which would be prepped for the retainer crown portion of the bridge are both sound and healthy!
- Implants as long as they are properly maintained, can be utilized for other treatment option. For example, you can remove an implant crown and replace it with a locator abutment should the need arise.
- With a proper oral health routine, your dental implant can last a lifetime.
Cons Of dental implants!
- While implants are a great tooth replacement option, they can never replace your GOD given teeth. They can not sense hot, cold, sweet, sour, and other stimulus like your natural teeth because they lack receptors which sends messages to your brain with bio feedback.
- They tend to be more expensive due to the components used to perform these procedures.
- Implants are capable of becoming diseased just like a natural tooth..
- Peri implantitis: gum inflammation is found around the soft tissue and there is deterioration in the bone supporting the dental implant. Peri-implantitis usually requires surgical treatment.
- Peri-implant mucositis, gum inflammation is found only around the soft tissues of the dental implant, with no signs of bone loss. Generally peri-implant mucositis is a precursor to peri-implantitis. Evidence suggests that peri-implant mucositis may be successfully treated and is reversible if caught early
- Other risks factors for developing peri-implant disease include previous periodontal disease diagnosis, poor plaque control, smoking, and diabetes. It is essential to routinely monitor dental implants as part of a comprehensive periodontal evaluation.