Dental Implants

If you lose one or more teeth due to decay, tooth fractures or periodontal disease, there is hope. Dental implants are changing the way people live! They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. Patients with dental implants can smile with confidence.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants themselves are  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 called abutments are then attached to the implant. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth. Dental Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

Evaluation

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, Dr. Collins will address your specific needs and 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.

We will also discuss fees and insurance at this time. There are many types of insurance plans, and coverage for implants is varied. We will be happy to assist you in obtaining any benefits to which you may be entitled.

Dental Implant Presentation

To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.

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The Surgical Procedure

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves one surgical procedure. Local anesthetic to numb the jaw is commonly used but sedative drugs can also be used for patients that are anxious. The site of the future restoration is prepared for the implant and it is placed within the jawbone much as a root is.   Healing time following surgery varies from person to person and is based on a variety of factors, such as hardness of bone. In some cases, implants may be restored with a temporary crown immediately after they are placed.
For the first three to six months following the surgery, dental implants are even with the level of the  gums  as they are gradually bonding with the jawbone. During this time you will need to be careful to not put pressure on the implant by chewing hard foods or grinding on the implant.
After this healing period, Dr. Collins will remove the temporary cover on the implant and place the post (abutment). Immediately afterward your general dentist will be able to start making your new teeth. An impression must be taken.  The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes four to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.

What Types of Prosthesis 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 a professional.

Dr. Collins performs in-office dental implant surgery. The procedures can be  performed with or without sedation but you will always have local anesthesia for comfort.
 
Dr. Collins has received extensive training in dental implantology through his residency training as well as continuuing education.. Through continuing education, Dr. Collins is abreast of the most current information on implant dentistry.