Dental Implants
 
What Dental Implants Can Do For You
Replace one or more teeth without affecting bordering teeth
Support a bridge and eliminate the need for a removable partial denture
Provide support for a denture, making it more secure and comfortable
An option for tooth replacement
One of the most exciting and innovative procedures in contemporary dentistry has been the use of endosseous (root form) dental implants to replace one or several teeth. While implants have been used in dentistry for over 25 years, new surgical and restorative techniques have made implants a predictable and very successful method of tooth replacement. Today dental implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth, to replace multiple missing teeth, or to stabilize poor fitting full or partial dental plates.
 
A dental implant is a substitute for a natural tooth root. The implant is a small anchor shaped like a screw or cylinder that is made of a material (usually titanium) that is very compatible with the body. The implants serve as an anchor to the replacement teeth, which are attached to the implant via a post that extends through the gums.
 
Although dental implants have given many patients a "third" set of teeth, not everyone may be candidates for implants.  The ideal implant candidate is in good general health, has good oral health, and has adequate bone available in the jaw to support and house the dental implant.  The patient must also be willing to commit to routine follow-up and maintenance visits to check the health and status of the restored implants.
 
We can help you decide if implants are a viable option to help you replace missing teeth. A complete and thorough dental examination by us is essential before making a decision. We will update your medical history, check your dental condition, thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and supporting bone in the jaw. Your occlusion or bite will be evaluated and any necessary x-rays will be taken. We may prescribe that a computer assisted x-ray of your jaw be taken so that the correct size, shape, and type of implant can be selected for your particular situation. Once all of this data is collected, your dentist and Dr. Polimeni will consult with you regarding your implant options, risks and benefits of treatment, and alternatives to treatment.
 
When a tested and proven dental implant system is used, your dental implants can have a success rate greater than 90%. In fact, dental implants have lasted as long as 20 years and may last a lifetime. Dental implant treatment will vary depending on each patient's specific needs. The first step is the surgical placement of the implant within the jaw bone. This surgical procedure can be done very comfortably in the dental office with local anesthetic (novocaine) for most patients.
 
The surgical procedure is generally well tolerated and often the post-operative course is as easy as the removal or extraction of a tooth. Once the surgery is completed, the implant must heal within the jaw bone for a period of 4 to 6 months, while the patient's own bone grows up to and fixates the implant within the jaw.  When the implant is ready to be exposed, a second procedure is done to attach a small post or healing collar to the implant. This extends the implant from the bone level projecting it through the gums. After this second surgical procedure the implants are ready to be built upon. The patient will then return to the dentist so that the final restoration can be placed on the implant(s).
 
Once the implant restoration is in place and completed the patient will be instructed as to the care of the implants. This care is very similar to the way we care for and clean our teeth.
 
If you are missing one or more teeth, or have denture plates that do not quite fit as securely or comfortably as they once did, please contact us.

 
Commonly Asked Questions About Dental Implants
 
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small metallic cylinders, shaped like the roots of natural teeth, that are surgically placed into the jawbone as a substitute for the natural tooth roots. The material of the implants is usually titanium or other bone-like substances that are very compatible with the body. Dental implants serve as anchors to the new replacement teeth which are attached to the part of the implant that projects through the gums.
 
While high-tech in nature, dental implants are actually more tooth-saving than traditional bridgework, since implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support.
 
Dental implants are so natural looking and feeling, you may forget you ever lost a tooth.
 
 
Who should have dental implants, am I a candidate?
Almost anyone who has lost one or more natural teeth can benefit from dental implants. The ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease.
 
Originally, dental implants were developed for people wearing full dentures, but they have proven to be valuable as replacements for a single missing tooth and groups of missing teeth in the front and back of the mouth.
 
Dental implants have been advantageous to young adults who have lost teeth to trauma such as automobile or athletic accident as well as those who want to avoid removable partial dentures.
 
However, not everyone is right for this procedure and potential patients undergo a thorough selection process. Ideal patients should be in good general health, committed to good oral hygiene and have adequate bone in the jaw to support the implant.
 
 
How long does treatment take?
The length of treatment varies with the individual problem, but the average is between six and nine months. Completion may take longer depending on the healing process and the amount of time needed for the fabrication, construction and development of the artificial teeth.
 
 
What is the Procedure?
This procedure is a team effort between you, your dentist and your periodontist. Your periodontist and dentist will consult with you to determine where and how your implant should be placed. Depending on your specific condition and the type of implant you choose, your periodontist will create a treatment plan tailored to meet your needs.
 
It will be important for you to work as a team with your periodontist and dentist to reach your treatment goals.
 
The process is a surgical one that is usually performed under local anesthesia. First, an incision is made in the gum to expose the jaw bone. The implant is placed in the jaw and then covered with the gum. During the following three to six months, the implant is not visible while the bone grows tightly around it to hold it firmly in place. After the three to six months a second minor surgical procedure is performed. A small metal post, called a connector or abutment, is attached to the part of the implant that projects through the gum. Additional healing time is needed, from one to several weeks, and the new tooth or teeth, are then attached to the connector or abutment.
 
 
Is the procedure painful?
There is little or no discomfort associated with the placement of implants. The procedure is usually performed in-office under local anesthesia. There is minimal post-operative discomfort and most patients resume normal activities the following day.
 
 
What are the advantages of dental implants over dentures or a bridge?
Every way you look at it, dental implants are a better solution to the problem of missing teeth.
 
Esthetic
Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth! Since dental implants integrate into the structure of your bone, they prevent the bone loss and gum recession that often accompany bridgework and dentures. No one will ever know that you have a replacement tooth.
 
Teeth Saving
Dental implants don't sacrifice the quality of your adjacent teeth like a bridge does because neighboring teeth are not altered to support the implant. More of your own teeth are left untouched, a significant long-term benefit to your oral health!
 
Confidence
Dental implants will allow you to once again speak and eat with comfort and confidence! They are secure and offer freedom from the irksome clicks and wobbles of dentures. They'll allow you to say goodbye to worries about misplaced dentures and messy pastes and glues.
 
Reliable
The success rate of dental implants is highly predictable. They are considered an excellent option for tooth replacement.
 
 
Do implants need to be professionally cleaned?
Implants, like natural teeth, should receive conscientious at-home oral care as well as professional cleaning on a regular basis. Dental implants are like your own teeth and will require the same care. Brushing, flossing and visiting your dentist for a professional check-up are essential to the success of dental implants.
 
 
How long do dental implants last?
As with any procedure dealing with living bone and natural functions, there can be no guarantee. However, when tested dental implants are placed by specially trained dentists, they can have a success rate of over 90 percent. In fact, with effective oral care at home and regular dental visits, dental implants have lasted as long as 20 years.
 
 
How much do implants cost?
The cost depends on the level of damage that needs to be repaired, the difficulty of the procedure and the health and size of the patient's jawbone. A dentist can give a more accurate estimate after evaluating a patient's condition. The costs range from $750 to $1,800 per implant. This does not include special radiographic evaluations or prosthetic fees.
 
 
Does insurance cover implants?
Insurance coverage for implants depends on the scope of each individual's plan. Few dental plans have provisions for implants since most dental insurance schedules were developed before implants were considered routine clinical treatment. However, coverage under a patient's medical plan may be possible, depending on the insurance plan and/or cause of tooth loss.
 
 
What special qualifications does the periodontist have to place implants?
The placement of implants requires the same surgical skills that periodontists use to perform routine periodontal surgery. In addition, periodontists' expertise in diagnosing which natural teeth can be saved, can help determine whether the implant is likely to succeed. Periodontists also bring the team concept to implant treatment. They are accustomed to working with general dentists and other specialists as a team to accomplish comprehensive dental treatment. Maintenance care of implants is also important and periodontists are trained and experienced in providing a high caliber of ongoing maintenance treatment for implants as well as natural teeth.
 
 
What can I expect after treatment?
After treatment, your periodontist will work closely with you and your dentist to develop the best care plan for you. Periodic follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your implant, teeth and gums to make sure they are healthy.