Dental Implants

Dental implants are titanium surgical-grade root replacements that support permanent tooth prosthetics that are manufactured to last a lifetime. These artificial roots are anchored in the bone beneath the gums where they become anchored into the jaw. Many dentists and patients prefer dental implants because they offer the same function as natural teeth and also help prevent bone atrophy in the jaw. Dental implants may be used to replace a single missing or damaged tooth or to restore an entire smile.

Teeth in a Day

“Teeth in a Day”, also known as All-on-4, is a one-day solution for patients who want to be able to remove all of their remaining natural teeth and replace them with natural-looking and functioning prosthetic teeth. The procedure is most commonly used to treat dental patients who have already lost many of their natural teeth and/or have no healthy ones remaining. With “Teeth in a Day,” a dentist can remove and replace the teeth all in a single treatment.

Did you know…

that approximately 30 million people live with no natural teeth in one or both jaws? But more and more dental patients are opting for dental implants as a means of tooth replacement. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry reports that 3 million people currently have dental implants – a number that is rapidly growing by about 500,000 per year. Modern titanium implants were first developed in the 1950’s, but archaeologists have determined that ancient Egyptians and Mayans were the first cultures to implant artificial teeth.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dental implants right for me?

You may qualify for dental implants if you have missing, broken or severely decayed teeth and are in relatively good overall health. The only way of determining your eligibility for implants is to consult with an oral care provider to identify whether you have adequate bone support and healthy gums that will support the new tooth structure.

Should I get a bridge instead?

Very often people are faced with the option of a bridge or a dental implant to replace a missing tooth. There are advantages and disadvantages to both of these options and times where one may be possible but not the other. The only way to determine what is best for you is to discuss your individual needs with your dentist. Please read the information in the following link to help answer any questions regarding the decision you have in your healthcare choices.

Am I a candidate for “Teeth in a Day?”

You will need a complete oral examination and dental consultation to determine if “Teeth in a Day” is right for you. It is during this time that you can review your options for prosthetic tooth replacement and ask your dentist any questions you may have about the procedure.

What should I expect if my dentist and I decide dental implants are right for me?

The placement of dental implants is a multi-step process that is typically completed in stages over 3-6 months depending on the individual needs of that patient. It begins with a surgical procedure during which a titanium implant is placed where a previous natural tooth root once was. The gums are sutured shut over the implant, where is will stay for several months while it heals and begins fusing with the surrounding bone. At the conclusion of the healing period, you’ll return to be fitted for permanent crowns and have them placed.

What should I expect if I undergo a “Teeth in a Day” treatment?

“Teeth in a Day” is a surgical procedure that can be performed with IV sedation or simply local anesthetic (numbing medicine). After careful planning, any remaining teeth will be removed and a series of titanium implants will be strategically placed beneath the surface of your gums. You will then be fitted with temporary teeth that will remain in place until your dentist determines that you can be fitted for your permanent teeth. This will allow you to have teeth on the same day the implants are placed.

What type of post-treatment care will I require?

It is normal to experience some discomfort, including bruising and swelling following a dental implant procedure. However, inflammation and pain may be managed with over-the-counter medications, hydrocodone, or codeine. You may be asked to eat only soft foods for approximately 2 weeks until the surgical site heals.