Dental Implant
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.
Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.
What are Dental Implants ?
The dental implants are tiny titanium posts which are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, dental implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.
Dental implants are metal anchors, which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth. There are now available tooth colored zirconium implant posts that allow for optimum esthetics for anterior teeth.
Evaluation for Dental Implants
If, 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. Bhui. 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 for Dental Implants
For most 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 a temporary tooth replacement much like an orthodontic retainer. At the same time, Dr. Bhui designs the final bridge work or crown, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.
After the implant has bonded to the jawbone (about 3 months after initial placement), the second phase begins. The surgeon will uncover the implants and attach a small post. Dr. Bhui can then start making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. Then temporary crowns 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.
Zirconium Posts
The small post that attaches to the titanium screw that has fused to your bone may now be made with a tooth colored post. Before the advent of the zirconium post, patients often had a grey tint where the new tooth emerged from the gum line. With this new technology, there is no grey tint as the emerging new crown is attached to a tooth colored post allowing for a more cosmetic result. Zirconium is very strong.