Dental Implants

Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything, as well as self-confidence knowing that their teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. Patients with dental implants can smile with confidence. If you have questions about dental implants call our office for a consultation.

What Are Dental Implants?

The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts that protrude through the gums are then attached to the implant. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth. Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

What Are The Advantages Of Dental Implants?

• Restore your smile
• Look and feel like your own teeth
• Become permanent as they are designed to fuse with the bone
• Restore your ability to properly chew and speak
• Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
• Very durable and with good care, many implants last a lifetime.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by the doctor or by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon suggested by our practice. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

What Is Involved In The Dental Implant Procedure?

The first step in the dental implant process is the development of an individualized treatment plan. The plan addresses your specific needs and is prepared by a team of professionals who are specially trained and experienced in oral surgery and restorative dentistry. This team approach provides coordinated care based on the implant option that is best for you.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, the tooth root implant, which is a small post made of titanium, is placed into the bone socket of the missing tooth.

For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants beneath the surface of the gums gradually bond with the jawbone. Depending on your case you should be able to wear a temporary crown or a temporary denture and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, the doctor will design the final crown bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. A small connector post, known as an abutment, is attached to the post to securely hold the new tooth. To make your new tooth or teeth, Dr. Williams makes impressions of your teeth, and creates a model of your bite (which captures all of your teeth, their type, and arrangement). Your new tooth or teeth are based on this model. A replacement tooth is then attached to the abutment.

The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.