Using the most recent advances in dental implant technology, Dr. Lahar is able to place single stage implants. These implants do not require a second procedure to uncover them, but they usually require a minimum of eight weeks healing time before the final teeth are placed by the restoring dentist. In some cases, if the bone is dense enough, temporary teeth can be placed the same day as the implant. There are situations where implants can be placed at the same time as the tooth extraction further minimizing the number of surgical procedures.
Dental implant placement is a team effort between an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a restorative dentist. Dr. Lahar performs the implant surgery, initial tooth extractions and bone grafting if necessary. The restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the teeth on the implants. Your dentist will also make temporary teeth as needed during the implant healing phase.
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.
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 the dentist.
Why Select Dental Implants Over More Traditional Types Of Restorations?
An implant tooth replaces the missing tooth without damaging adjacent teeth. A conventional bridge requires cutting the adjacent teeth down to accept cemented crowns and a fake tooth goes between the crowns. The cement eventually washes out and decay destroys the underlying tooth. This often results in loss of the crowned teeth of the bridge. Implants preserve facial structure by preventing bone resorption that occurs upon removal of a natural tooth root.
Are You A Candidate For Implants?
If you are considering implants, your mouth must be examined thoroughly and your medical and dental history reviewed. If you mouth is not ideal for implants, ways of improving outcome, such as bone grafting, may be recommended.
What Type Of Anesthesia Is Used?
Both local and general anesthesia can be used to place dental implants. The more advanced and difficult implant placements with bone grafting require general anesthesia. Most patients are much more comfortable with using general anesthesia and this is what is usually recommended at the consultation appointment.
Do Implants Need Special Care?
Once the implants are in place, they will serve you well for many years if you take care of them and keep your mouth healthy. This means taking the time for good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and keeping regular appointments with your dentist. To maintain the health of the bone and gum around the dental implant we ask our patients to return immediately after the final crown has been placed for special instructions and oral hygiene. The cleaning methods will be tailored to the specific needs of your individual dental restoration.