Dental Implants:
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a metal post made of titanium placed surgically in to the jawbone. Once placed the post integrates with the patients bone. This process takes usually 3-4 months. An implant procedure is usually carried out by an oral surgeon. Once integration takes place, you are ready for the tooth build up stage. Done here at Dr. Steve Mocrae's office.Once we are at the tooth build up stage, in most cases there is little or no pain for these procedures and often no anesthetic required.What types of tooth replacement can dental implants provide?
A single dental implant can replace a single missing tooth. In this case a single tooth is fabricated and attached to the implant post that was surgically placed. For those Missing multiple teeth, or small teeth, several implants can be utilized to give a partial or full denture a more fixed retention. You do not in these cases need one implant for each tooth missing however, several implants may be needed depending on the complexity of the case.
What are the benefits of implants for missing teeth as opposed to regular dentures?
Dental implants mimick natural teeth and provide much more stability than typical removable partial or complete dentures. With dental implants chewing efficiency is increased, since they are a more fixed solution. This gives in turn increased nutrition and healthier immunce system to fight disease and cancer. With only regular fixed dentures, chewing efficiency can be decreased as much as 75% due to lack of retention and constant movement.
Because implants are fixed, it is typically more comfortable for this type of tooth replacement, avoiding dentures that can slip and slide around your mouth while talking and eating.Because dental implants act similar to natural teeth, patients often report increased self esteem. Long term studies have shown with proper care implants can last 20 years or more with limited complications.
Implant Complications
Studies show that once implants are placed there is a 3% chance that they will not take. This is a very small chance that complications may occur such as non-integration. In the event that this occurs, implant replacement (often at no charge) will correct the problem. For implants that have been in place for many years, there may be a charge to replace.
Are dental implants right for you?
Implants are all about healthy bone and healthy patients. Sometimes you have medical complications and implants may not be appropriate for you. In most cases there is no problem. The condition of your jaw bone is again very important. Some patients need a procedure called bone grafting, which is the addition of bone to the implant site (using your own bone), before implants are placed. The oral surgeon, upon your arrival consultation will, if needed discuss any necessary concerns with you.
Dental Implant Care
Care of your dental implants is much like caring for your natural teeth. Proper oral hygiene is important and regular check ups. For further information you may call or email us at our office.
