Dental Implants

Dental Implants 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.

Dental Implants Presentation

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 are tiny titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

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, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by either Dr. White or by a surgeon referred by our practice. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success.

Procedure

Dental implants are metal anchors that act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. Small posts are then attached to the implant that will protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

For some patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums, gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. During this time, Dr. White designs the final bridgework or denture that will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. The surgeon will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. Dr. White can then start making your new teeth. An impression will be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The replacement teeth are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.

For other patients, a temporary crown can be placed on the implant at the same time as the implant and the same time as the implant placement. There are several factors which need to be evaluated by Dr. White and the surgeon to make this possible.

For more information about dental implants or to schedule a consultation appointment, please call 440-461-0994.

C.T. Guided Surgery, Teeth-In-An-Hour

These newer techniques provide patients with fully functioning implants in a single procedure. Prior to the actual surgery, a prosthesis is fabricated (usually an interim) and is attached to the implant (s) at the time of surgery or immediately afterward by Dr. White. This benefit allows you to not be without teeth at any time and also decreases the treatment time.

The process is initiated with a CAT scan of your jawbone. Sometimes, a special guide is fabricated by Dr. White before this to aide in the visualization/planning process. A computerized 3-D model is generated and the treatment can be planned in virtual reality without the need for the patient to be present. This allows for Dr. White and the surgeon to plan the procedure before reviewing the recommended treatment with you. The final result is a more reliable implant placement and less treatment time for you.

As with all technology, this process is continually changing to be more patient friendly and we are staying up to date to offer you the most current treatments.