dental implants
Dental implant therapy has become the preferred approach for "permanently" replacing one or more missing teeth. This remarkable advancement in dental treatment significantly enhances the quality of life by restoring health, function and appearance.
This movie shows how we can place an implant at the same time as the tooth extraction. It also demonstrates how we can use the provisional denture to help maintain the soft tissue anatomy. It has the same shape as the tooth that was removed. Papilla will not be maintained if it is not supported during the healing phase.
what is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a biocompatible screw-like titanium "fixture" that is surgically placed into the jawbone. It acts as a tooth root subsitute. An implant abutment and permanent crown are ultimately attached to the implant by your restorative doctor.
examination and treatment plan
During the examination process, the overall condition of the mouth will be clinically and radiographically evaluated by Dr. Ekelman. A full assessment for implant surgery would include your peridontal health and status, quality and quantity of underlying bone, position of teeth, occlusion and cosmetic desires.
sequence of events during implant treatment
- STEP 1: Implant Placement
With the use of local anesthesia,the surgeon lifts the gum tissue away and performs a precise and gentle technique to place the dental implant fixture into the jawbone. The gum is repositioned and sutured. Most patients experience no major discomfort after the procedure.
- STEP 2: Osseointegration Period
The dental implant fixture will be left undisturbed in the jawbone for a period of four to six months. During this healing phase,the bone attaches to the implant and OSSEOINTEGRATION takes place.
- STEP 3: Abutment Connection
Once osseointegration of the implant is complete, the surgeon exposes the top of the implant and attaches a post or abutment. This abutment passes through the gum and ultimately supports the new tooth.
- STEP 4: FINAL Prosthetic Treatment
Your dentist will take an impression of the implant and will work with the lab technician to make the new implant-supported tooth The final prosthetic tooth can be screwed to place or cemented. The new tooth is firmly anchored into the bone and gums, and will look and feel just like a natural tooth.
